Search Results (293)

Digital transformation (DT) fundamentally reshapes how organisations operate, create value, and respond to complex environments through the integration of digital technologies. Beyond mere technical deployment, DT involves behavioural, strategic, and institutional changes. As these transformations are increasingly managed through projects and programmes, project management plays a pivotal role, not only in delivering these transformations but also in enabling them. However, the relationship between DT and project management remains fragmented and insufficiently explored. This paper addresses this gap by systematically reviewing 66 peer-reviewed articles using a qualitative thematic coding approach informed by sociotechnical systems theory. The analysis reveals four interrelated themes: methodologies and the sociotechnical integration of digital tools, misalignments in sociotechnical interfaces, governance and leadership, and industry- or project-specific transformation trajectories. Based on these findings, the paper proposes three key future research agenda: (1) embedding digital tools through methodological mediation and governance integration, (2) governance and leadership as strategic enablers, and (3) advancing sector-specific insights into DT. By offering a structured synthesis and a theory-driven research agenda, this review contributes to a more integrated understanding of how DT unfolds within project-based contexts and lays the groundwork for future interdisciplinary research. Full article

The transition to a decarbonised energy system in Ireland presents significant socio-technical challenges. This paper, focused on the work of the SMARTLAB project at the Citizen Innovation Lab in Limerick city, investigated the potential of a localised living lab approach to address these challenges. Engaging across 70 buildings and their inhabitants, the project captured the evolution of attitudes and intentions towards the clean energy transition in ways directly relevant to future policy implementation across grid redevelopment, smart service design, and national retrofit. Project methodology was framed by a living lab approach, with wireless energy and indoor environment sensors installed in participant buildings and participant journeys developed by harnessing the Citizen Innovation Lab ecosystem. The results indicate behaviour changes among participants, particularly focusing on indoor environmental conditions. The study concludes that embedded, localised living labs offer a methodological framework which can capture diverse datasets and encompass complex contemporary contexts towards transition goals. Full article

Video surveillance systems have become pervasive in contemporary society, prompting growing concerns about their psychological and behavioral effects on individuals. This study investigates how perceived surveillance influences self-censorship and behavioral regulation in monitored environments, drawing on the conceptual framework of panoptic self-regulation and surveillance-induced anxiety. A structured questionnaire was administered to 358 university students, and data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis to validate latent constructs, followed by ordinal logistic regression and mediation analysis to test key hypotheses. The results indicate that individuals who perceive higher psychological pressure due to surveillance are more likely to modify their behavior, exhibiting heightened self-awareness and restraint. Additionally, belief in the active monitoring of surveillance footage significantly amplifies behavioral vigilance. The perception of the technological omnipresence of surveillance further intensifies psychological discomfort, which mediates behavioral change. These findings conceptualize video surveillance as a socio-technical system that exerts behavioral influence through internalized psychological mechanisms. The study highlights the importance of considering the unintended consequences of surveillance technologies on autonomy and freedom, and it suggests that regulatory frameworks should account not only for legal compliance but also for the psychological impact of surveillance. The results provide empirical support for viewing surveillance systems as dynamic regulators of human behavior. Full article

Urban mobility resilience plays a central role in sustainable urban planning discussions, especially considering the challenges of extreme events, climate change, and the increasing scarcity of fossil fuels. This study evaluates urban mobility resilience in Petrópolis (RJ), incorporating socio-spatial heterogeneity and energy vulnerability. This research fills methodological gaps in the literature by proposing a composite resilience index that integrates technical, socioeconomic, and fossil fuel dependency variables within a robust multicriteria framework. We selected eleven variables relevant to urban mobility and organized them into inference blocks. We normalized the variables using Gaussian functions, respecting their maximization or minimization characteristics. We applied the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assign weights to the criteria and then aggregated and ranked the results using multicriteria analysis. The final index represents the adaptive capacity of urban territories facing the energy crisis, and we applied it spatially to the neighborhoods of Petrópolis. The analysis identified a significant concentration of neighborhoods with low resilience, particularly in quadrants, combining deficiencies in public transportation, high dependence on fossil fuels, and socioeconomic constraints. Factors such as limited pedestrian access, insufficient motorized public transport coverage, and a high proportion of elderly residents emerged as significant constraints on urban resilience. Intervention strategies that promote active mobility, improve accessibility, and diversify transportation modes proved essential for strengthening local resilience. The results emphasize the urgent need for public policies to reduce energy vulnerability, foster active mobility, and promote equity in access to transportation infrastructure. Full article

Water distribution systems (WDSs) exhibit intricate, nonlinear behaviors shaped by both internal dynamics and external influences. The incorporation of additional models, such as contamination or population models, further increases their complexity. This study investigated WDSs under various uncertainty scenarios to enhance system stability, robustness, and control. In particular, we built upon prior research by exploring an Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) framework integrated within a WDS, focusing on three types of uncertainties: (1) adjustments to existing probabilistic parameters, (2) variations in agent movement across network nodes, and (3) changes in agent distributions across different node types. We conducted our analysis using the virtual city of Micropolis as a testbed. Our findings indicate that while the system remains resilient to uncertainties in predefined probabilistic parameters, substantial and often nonlinear effects arise when uncertainties are introduced in agent mobility and distribution patterns. These results emphasize the significance of understanding how WDSs respond to external behavioral dynamics, which is essential for managing real-world challenges, such as pandemics or shifts in urban behavior. This study underscores the necessity for further research into broader uncertainty categories and emergent effects to enhance WDS modeling and inform decision-making. Full article

The air transportation system is composed of multiple elements and belongs to a complex socio-technical system. It is difficult to assess the risk of an aircraft fault because it could constantly change during operation and is influenced by numerous factors. Although traditional methods such as Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) can reflect the degree of fault risk to a certain extent, they cannot accurately quantify and evaluate the fault risk under the multiple influences of human factors, random faults, and external environment. In order to solve these problems, this article proposes a fault risk assessment method for aircraft control systems based on a fault risk composite assessment framework using the Improved Risk Priority Number (IRPN) as the basis for the fault risk assessment. Firstly, a Bayesian network (BN) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) are introduced into the traditional evaluation framework, and a hybrid prediction model combining static and dynamic failure probability is constructed. Subsequently, this paper uses the functional resonance analysis method (FRAM) by introducing a risk damping coefficient to analyze the propagation and evolution of fault risks and accurately evaluate the coupling effects between different functional modules in the system. Finally, taking the fault of a jammed flap/slat drive mechanism as an example, the risk of the fault is evaluated by calculating the IRPN. The calculation results show that the comprehensive failure probability of the aircraft control system in this case is 3.503 × 10⁻⁴. Taking into account the severity, the detection, and the risk damping coefficient, the calculation result of IRPN is 158.00. According to the classification standard of the risk level, the failure risk level of the aircraft belongs to a controlled risk, and emergency measures need to be taken, which is consistent with the actual disposal decision in this case. Therefore, the evaluation framework proposed in this article not only supports a quantitative assessment of system safety and provides a new method for fault risk assessments in aviation safety management but also provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for optimizing fault response strategies. Full article

Ecological carrying capacity (ECC) is central to assessing the sustainability of ecosystems, aiming to quantify the limits of natural systems to support human activities while maintaining biodiversity and resource regeneration. To assess ECC, earlier studies typically used the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method for modeling. In this study, we developed an AHP-EW method based on a combination of AHP and the entropy weight method, which considered important indicators including land use, vegetation, soil, location, topography, climate, and socio-economics, and constructed an ECC evaluation system. The new AHP-EW method was applied to analyze the spatiotemporal ECC patterns in Urumqi from 2000 to 2020. The results showed a general decreasing trend in ECC during the period 2000–2020. Among them, the ECC decreased significantly by 19.05% from 2000 to 2010. After 2010, the rate of decline in ECC slowed to 14.12% due to ecological conservation policies. In addition, Midong District, Dabancheng District, and Urumqi County had worse ECC. Still, in general, the distribution of ECC in each district and county showed a trend of decreasing in areas with low ECC and increasing in areas with high ECC. Cluster analysis showed that ECC improved in ecological reserve areas, while some built-up areas showed a decrease in ECC due to economic development and human activities. Driving factor analysis shows that NDVI, climate change, and land-use conversion are the key factors influencing the change in ECC in Urumqi. This study provides new ideas and technical support for ECC assessment in arid areas, which can help formulate more effective ecological protection strategies and promote the healthy and stable development of regional ecosystems. Full article

Energy poverty focuses on energy affordability in developed nations but is most often used in the developing world in the context of a lack of access to electricity, clean cooking fuels, or technologies. About 1.2 billion people still lack access to electricity and nearly 40 per cent of the world’s population lacks access to clean cooking fuels. In addition, climate change mitigation strategies must be applied to a complex and diverse socio-technical landscape that varies across and within countries. Energy poverty is among the most pressing issues to be addressed within these strategies; however, due to the complexity of its causes, there is no commonly agreed upon evaluation approach or holistic set of indicators for its quantitative evaluation. In this study, a comprehensive literature review is undertaken on energy poverty measurement methods and definitions, and factors that cause energy poverty. Through this, exogenous and endogenous factors that are often overlooked in the assessment and prediction of energy poverty are identified. The need for an energy poverty prediction framework is identified, incorporating missing perspectives and elements needed to implement future energy poverty projections to enable proactive policy development. Missing perspectives included an increase in energy demand associated with the development of innovative technologies including artificial intelligence and automation, increasing fuel prices, and exogenous factors such as rising temperatures and increased acute disasters and endemic structural failures associated with climate change leading to employment impacts, all of which may be critical to the accurate prediction of energy poverty. Full article

The transition from open pit to underground mining intensifies water-related hazards such as Acid Mine Drainage (AMD), groundwater contamination, and aquifer depletion, threatening ecological and socio-economic sustainability. This study develops an Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR) framework using a Multi-Dimensional Risk (MDR) approach to holistically assess water hazards in China’s mining regions, integrating environmental, social, governance, economic, technical, community-based, and technological dimensions. A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model combining the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) evaluates risks, enhanced by a Z-number Fuzzy Delphi AHP (ZFDAHP) spatiotemporal model to dynamically weight hazards across temporal (short-, medium-, long-term) and spatial (local to global) scales. Applied to the Sijiaying Iron Mine, AMD (78% severity) and groundwater depletion (72% severity) emerge as dominant hazards exacerbated by climate change impacts (36.3% dynamic weight). Real-time IoT monitoring systems and AI-driven predictive models demonstrate efficacy in mitigating contamination, while gender-inclusive governance and community-led aquifer protection address socio-environmental gaps. The study underscores the misalignment between static regulations and dynamic spatiotemporal risks, advocating for Lifecycle Assessments (LCAs) and transboundary water agreements. Policy recommendations prioritize IoT adoption, carbon–water nexus incentives, and Indigenous knowledge integration to align mining transitions with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 (Clean Water), 13 (Climate Action), and 14 (Life Below Water). This research advances a holistic strategy to harmonize mineral extraction with water security, offering scalable solutions for global mining regions facing similar ecological and governance challenges. Full article

Nigeria is among the countries highly vulnerable to climate change impact. Thus, there has been growing emphasis on the pursuit of decarbonization and net-zero (net-zero transition) strategies. The aim of this work is to review major concepts in research publications associated with climate change mitigation in Nigeria. The literature search was conducted on the Scopus database using relevant keyword operators. Mixed methods were adopted to conduct bibliometric, text mining and content analysis. Bibliometric software (VOSviewer) was used. The research objectives were to identify how net-zero transition research has evolved in Nigeria; their important research themes and trends in Nigeria, and potential directions for future research on achieving them in Nigeria. The results show that the number of publications in the field has been increasing, with 87% of the articles included in the dataset published between 2016 and 2024. Through data clustering, eight clusters of articles were identified, namely (i) the renewable energy, economic growth and emission reduction nexus (ii) energy transition in the Nigerian power system, (iii) policy drivers (socio-technical and economic) for a cleaner energy system, (iv) energy transition governance, (v) hybrid renewable energy systems, (vi) low-carbon transition, (vii) energy efficiency and low-carbon growth and others. By checking through the keywords used by authors, it appears that the most popular keywords are carbon neutrality, hydrogen, biomass, circular economy, and electric vehicles. These keywords further highlight areas of research interests. Some of the potential future directions identified include the need for effective research communication and strong cooperation between academia and relevant CC policy-making bodies to translate scientific research into evidence-based policies and actionable frameworks; tiered subsidies or tax rebates to low-income households to promote CC mitigating technologies and align CC objectives with social equity; and others. Although this work focuses solely on Nigeria, the country shares similar characteristics with many sub-Saharan African countries, and some others in the global South. Accordingly, the findings will be relevant to those areas, with some unique adaptations. Full article

The rise of Construction 4.0—driven by digitalisation, automation, and data-intensive technologies—is radically reshaping the construction industry. While its technological innovations are widely acknowledged, their implications for industrial relations remain underexplored. In this study, we conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) of 91 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2024, aiming to synthesise emerging knowledge on how Construction 4.0 is transforming workforce dynamics, employment models, and labour relations. Using NVivo software and an inductive thematic approach, we identify seven key themes: workforce transformation, the attraction of new generations and women, skill requirements and workforce development, supply chain and logistics optimisation, digital twin technology in project management, the emergence of new business models, and safety and risk assessment. Our findings highlight both opportunities—such as improved collaboration, skill diversification, and enhanced productivity—and challenges, including job displacement, digital ethics, and widening disparities between developed and developing countries. Recent studies from 2023 and 2024 underscore routine-biased changes in workforce structure, evolving project management practices through digital twins, and critical skill shortages within the sector. Furthermore, contemporary policy shifts and increasing labour tensions in some regions reveal deeper socio-economic implications of digital construction. This review contributes to a more holistic understanding of how technological innovation intersects with social systems in the built environment. The insights presented offer valuable guidance for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of Construction 4.0. Full article

Urban flooding represents a critical socio-ecological challenge exacerbated by climate change and rapid urbanization, with green infrastructure (GI) emerging as a transformative approach to flood management. This study employs an innovative methodological framework integrating the Biblioshiny, CiteSpace, and Orange3 analytical tools to examine research trends and evolutions in GI for urban flooding from 2015 to 2024. The bibliometric analysis of 813 publications reveals a profound epistemological transition from technically oriented approaches toward integrated socio-ecological frameworks. The citation patterns demonstrate increasing scholarly attention on multifunctionality, climate resilience, and governance dimensions, with the United States and China emerging as dominant research hubs. The analysis identifies distinct thematic clusters reflecting the field’s intellectual progression from hydrological engineering paradigms toward systemic conceptualizations that recognize the complex interactions between technical, ecological, and social dimensions. Despite these advancements, persistent knowledge gaps remain regarding longitudinal performance evaluations, governance frameworks for maintenance, and scalar integration from site-specific interventions to watershed-level outcomes. These findings emphasize the need for methodological innovation addressing the temporal dimensions of GI performance and institutional arrangements for its implementation across diverse urban contexts, positioning GI as a critical component of sustainable urban water management amid increasing climatic uncertainty. Full article

Current food systems provide relative food security but compromise planetary health and largely fail to address climate change challenges. Regional food supplies can contribute to sustainable production and consumption, reducing the dependence on global supply chains. However, food systems’ complexity and rigidity hinder the implementation of climate-conscious, healthier practices. The City.Food.Basket project explored regional food baskets in urban and peri-urban settings in Austria for the City of Graz and its surroundings, developing models for regional, healthy, and low-climate-impact diets. Against this background, we present a qualitative study that generated three explorative scenarios for promoting regional diets using a Delphi-based expert-stakeholder survey method with participatory elements. A scenario workshop elaborated on interconnecting actions to strengthen regional food supply, including making regional food a tender criterion, reducing waste, ensuring affordability, and shifting subsidies to climate-conscious practices for Graz. While the method successfully provides socio-technical futures for policy orientation, its direct policy impact remains low due to time constraints, short project duration, limited project resources, and differing rationalities between research and policymaking. This study highlights the need for improved connectivity between transdisciplinary research, foresight methods, and regional policy cycles to enhance such projects’ effectiveness. Full article

This study examines the changes that have occurred in the specific and varietal composition of fruit trees in one of the world’s most famous agricultural areas, the Conca d’Oro, a plain surrounding Palermo (Sicily, Italy). Changes in specific and varietal composition over the centuries are the result of endogenous changes to the orchards (e.g., the spread of cultivation techniques such as irrigation or the introduction of new species and varieties), social and economic changes (e.g., the development of citrus farming in response to the demand from citrus markets). The disappearance of traditional germplasm is a complex phenomenon due to the changes occurring since the middle of the last century in the agricultural system. The more recent changes occur, unfortunately, mainly due to the expansion of the city, which has erased many orchards and vegetable gardens, but also due to the loss of the emotional, economic, and social value of orchards. The protection of this germplasm becomes indispensable in a period of climate change that, among other things, reduces the effectiveness of agrochemicals. Some germplasm protection and product enhancement initiatives are currently in place in this area and can be applied in other fruit-growing areas as well. Full article

The emerging capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) and the systems that employ them have reached a point where they are integrated into critical decision-making processes, making it paramount to change and adjust how they are evaluated, monitored, and governed. For this reason, trustworthy AI (TAI) has received increased attention lately, primarily aiming to build trust between humans and AI. Due to the far-reaching socio-technical consequences of AI, organisations and government bodies have already started implementing frameworks and legislation for enforcing TAI, such as the European Union’s AI Act. Multiple approaches have evolved around TAI, covering different aspects of trustworthiness that include fairness, bias, explainability, robustness, accuracy, and more. Moreover, depending on the AI models and the stage of the AI system lifecycle, several methods and techniques can be used for each trustworthiness characteristic to assess potential risks and mitigate them. Deriving from all the above is the need for comprehensive tools and solutions that can help AI stakeholders follow TAI guidelines and adopt methods that practically increase trustworthiness. In this paper, we formulate and propose the Trustworthiness Optimisation Process (TOP), which operationalises TAI and brings together its procedural and technical approaches throughout the AI system lifecycle. It incorporates state-of-the-art enablers of trustworthiness such as documentation cards, risk management, and toolkits to find trustworthiness methods that increase the trustworthiness of a given AI system. To showcase the application of the proposed methodology, a case study is conducted, demonstrating how the fairness of an AI system can be increased. Full article