Theory and Measurement in Construction Productivity
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Construction 4.0 is the current transformation derived from the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) focused on addressing performance issues and enhancing productivity. Complexity, fragmentation and cultural barriers are growing challenges negatively affecting performance. Formally developing skills and standard procedures will provide the industry with the means to improve operations, reduce costs, and enhance quality [Siriwardhana 2023]. Combined research suggests that skills in a variety of areas, including general, digital, technical & non-technical, cognitive, emotional, social, and managerial must improve. Embracing and adopting digital technologies in automated environments will allow for better collaboration and significantly.
Lean Principles in Construction Management
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Greater project complexity and increasing client demands are leading to more project failures due to higher costs, labor shortages, and a lack of proper management in an industry known for poor performance. Megaprojects provide significant impact to economic development yet 98% of these project result in time and cost overruns with 30% average cost increase of 80% original value and 77% at least 40% behind schedule [Gartoumi 2024]. Success is dependent upon the best utilization of materials, minimizing waste, creating value, and meeting quality standards while reducing costs, assuring timely delivery and achieving client.
Towards Common Standards in the Construction Industry
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The construction industry is experiencing a myriad of changes brought on by the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) over the past decade. Globalization, digitalization, internet of things (IoT), cyber-physical systems (CPS), and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to impact standard processes while changing the traditional ways business is conducted [Kagan 2023]. Typical activities and the enterprises that conduct them are heavily regulated, creating a lag behind advanced innovations seen in information technology (IT). As these modern methods are applied throughout the industry, there is a growing need for implementation of new digital standards. Documentation is.
Measuring and Comparing Construction Activities
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The vast number of project elements and complex interdependencies between building systems necessitate prioritization of construction activities. The critical path method (CPM) and project evaluation and review technique (PERT) were developed to quantify the importance of project tasks. Schedule-based indexes further investigate the relative importance of tasks to determine probability and the degree of uncertainty [Zarghami 2022]. These include criticality index (CI), significant index (SI), cruciality index (CRI), uncertainty importance measure (UIM), and schedule sensitivity index (SSI) as shown in Table 1. Table 1. Defining schedule-based indexes [Zarghami 2022]. Utilizing several forms of construction.
Comparing Prices and Cost for Construction Projects
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Developed countries around the world are focused on achieving carbon neutrality. The construction industry remains a large consumer of natural resources and producer of carbon emissions leading to environmental degradation. Demolition further increase this impact creating 25% of global waste [Chen 2024]. The traditional linear model of production must be adapted towards a circular economy through restorative and regenerative design processes (see Fig 1). Figure 1. Life cycle of prefabricated modules in a circular economy [Chen 2024] Borrowing from procedures and techniques developed over the past century in the manufacturing industry, modular and prefabricated.
International Construction Cost Comparison
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The rapid growth of city centers around the world are creating new challenges for engineers and infrastructures. Increased pollution, urban flooding and water scarcity have become apparent over the past decades. Low impact development (LID), best management practices (BMPs), sustainable urban drainage (SuDS), and water sensitive urban design (WSUD) have emerged as the prominent strategies to control urban runoff [Zhu 2022]. Bio-retention, green roofs, grassed swales, and permeable pavement are essential measures of a Sponge City (SC) to provide and maintain natural ecosystems. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing (LCC) measure and.
Cost Factors in Construction Estimating
Author Note Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Architect ART-IS-ZEN® architecture & engineering 1101 E Tropicana Ave, Box 2125 Las Vegas, NV 89119-6629 Abstract Controlling costs by utilizing various project delivery methods will increase productivity and enhance performance. This has become of greater importance due to the current shortage of skilled tradespersons and inflation of material prices. Technologies from a variety of market sectors are being integrated into the construction industry to improve efficiency and reduce waste. These added benefits align with sustainable development goals focused on quality of life and reducing environmental impact. Various tools from construction estimating and financial analysis provide.
Project Planning and Value Creation Utilizing Lean Construction
Author Note ART-IS-ZEN® architecture & engineering 1101 E Tropicana Ave, Box 2125 Las Vegas, NV 89119-6629 www.art-is-zen.com Abstract Project manager must provide proper planning and a wide variety of resource to successfully complete unique and complex construction. Lean principles from the manufacturing sector provide tools and techniques to improve performance at a reduced cost with limited waste. Integrating the critical path method with building information modeling provides a multi-dimensional representation of projects. This allow for better decision making through the analysis of data and evaluation of scenarios. It provides the means for optimization of procedures and processes leading to the.
Time Value of Money in Construction Projects
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Time, cost and quality (TCQ) are key performance indicators of any construction project. Trade-offs occur between minimizing duration and value while maximizing performance. Improvements towards one objective lead to deterioration of the others variables. Net present value (NPV) is greater when calculated periodically as real costs and overruns are realized at finish times (Kebriyaii 2021). Profitability can be optimized through financial analysis and effective decision making throughout the building lifecycle. Proposed financial models should be implemented for large scale-projects, along with environmental impact studies and consideration of social aspects, to ensure the success of.
Cash Flow Analysis for Construction Projects
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Adequate cash flow and financial planning are required for construction projects and the long-term success of development organizations. Lack of assets will prevent growth, have adverse effects on operations, and remains the leading cause of business failure (Sunagar 2022). For general contractors to perform work, they must first obtain materials and mobilize labor, this comes at a substantial upfront cost. Timely invoicing of owners and on-time payment to subcontractors and suppliers is essential to avoid costly delays and project failure. Accurate projections of the flow of money based on production and consumption rates becomes.
Lean Construction for Cost Control and Quality Improvement
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Recent growth in construction industry requires new means and methods to remain profitable. Lean construction (LC) has emerged from the manufacturing sector as one solution for increasing productivity, quality and value. The integrated system is focused on enhancing efficiency by optimizing operations while reducing wastes and controlling costs (Varshini 2024). Traditional construction processes generate excessive amounts of waste due to inadequate planning and lack of training & experience. Restructuring of organizations and implementation of new procedures with a reliance on human aspects throughout the project-related hierarchy. Lean thinking (LT) is a ‘focus on processes.
Earned Value Management in Construction Cost Analysis
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Variance in cost and schedule throughout the lifecycle of a construction project become apparent through utilization of earned value analysis (EVA). These calculations provide an early-warning system for small and large businesses providing them with a means to identify problems regarding financing and scheduling estimates (Echeme 2023). EVA compares the actual amount of work against the anticipated work that is planned. The method allows for project managers to monitor and evaluate the performance of construction and take corrective actions to ensure timely completion within the approved budget. Earned value management (EVM) is a method.
Cost Control in Construction Project Management
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Cost management directly affects the profitability of construction companies. Market economy adds uncertainty to an industry with a substantial amount of inherent risk (Zhou 2023). Long project timelines in particular can be heavily impacted by market fluctuations that affect material and labor cost. Negligence in cost estimating and failure to address the importance of these hidden costs may result in considerable financial losses. Properly managing and optimizing estimating strategies will maximize profits for contractors allowing them to perform quality work for property owners. Big data technology and the internet of things are becoming integrated.
Cost Estimating and Profitability in Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Cost estimation is critical to the success of any construction project. Inaccurate estimating can lead to poor job performance or project failure due to budget shortfalls and schedule overruns. Most formal research has been focused on the various methods of cost estimations without investigating the performance factors of those estimates (Fazil 2021). By studying cost estimating methods and how they impact to project outcome, we can better predict the profitability of future work. Historical data and macroeconomic indicators are widely used in construction cost estimating. These range from rough approximations based on size, scope.
Construction Budgeting and Cost Control Measures
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The success of a construction project is measured by completing the project objectives to a high standard, on time and within budget. Construction project management incorporates planning, scheduling, estimating, worker safety, financial risk, professional practice, contract administration and cost control (Pawar 2002). While finish quality and building performance are subjective, schedule requirements and projected costs remain finite. Cost management monitors, analyzes and evaluates that information to forecast, control and report the financial status of a project or company. Project management begins with resource planning and cost estimation. The costs of labor, materials and equipment.
Exploration of Risk Potential in Design-Build Construction
Author Note: ART-IS-ZEN® architecture & engineering 2605 S Decatur Blvd, Ste 123 Box 101 Las Vegas, NV 89102-8591 www.art-is-zen.com Abstract Design-build is emerging as the preferred method of project delivery with lower costs, faster times, and better quality. It combines architectural, engineering and construction tasks under one business entity. Contractors are then able to offer a single point of contact for building and facility owners. This reduced the liability and exposure for their clients while providing better project performance. With increased risk to the contractor, focusing on early team building with a common culture is vital to project success. Keywords:.
Decision Making During Uncertain Conditions
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Construction projects are filled with uncertainty from conception to completion and beyond. These variables fluctuate within probable ranges, though an increase in any risk factor can affect project performance, typically results in greater cost and longer duration (Feng 2022). Decision making in early stages have the greatest impact on outcome when uncertainty is high, while changes made at later stages will come at highest costs. Proper planning is therefore crucial to project success and must incorporate financing, design, building and operations by knowledgeable and experienced personnel from various industries. Given the high levels of.
Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis in Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect A wide variety of risks and uncertainties affect construction projects across all phases. Utilizing different methods of data analysis allows us to better understand the causes of physical hazards, financial threats, and legal burdens. Scenario analysis involves long-term strategic planning within an organization based on casual affect. We can then determine probabilistic outcomes of dependent variables derived from different independent values and a set of assumptions by utilizing sensitivity analysis. The most apparent risks relate to worker safety considering the many jobsite hazards and potential for workplace accidents. These conditions and events can result.
Building Resilience: How Small Construction Firms Can Thrive in Tough Times
by Shirley Martin ([email protected]) Economic downturns pose significant challenges to small construction firms, often testing their resilience and adaptability. Preparing for a recession is crucial for these businesses to maintain financial stability and navigate through tough times effectively. It involves adopting strategies that not only preserve but also potentially enhance their operational and financial health. In this article from
Managing Uncertainty in the Construction Industry
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Decision making throughout the project life cycle will have a significant impact on the final performance of a construction project. It is imperative that project managers be able to make informed decisions related to resources, schedules and alternatives. Uncertainty and a lack of information about the project present challenges that require probability-based assessments. The majority of these uncertainties occur in the planning stage before construction implementation. Accuracy in measuring construction performance has been shown to vary by 25–40% from fluctuations in project cost, duration and environmental impacts (Wang 2022). Probability-based methods provide ways of.
Risk Assessment Tools for New and Existing Construction Projects
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Risk management (RM) involves identifying hazards and threats, estimating the probability and impact of these conditions and events, developing and implementing strategic responses, and monitoring the outcomes during the project lifecycle (Okudan 2021). Design complexities and the dynamic nature of construction present many uncertainties for project managers. These factors create challenges that are best approached through utilization of risk assessment tools. Construction supervision is an effective tool for reducing risks. Organizations offering this service work several areas concurrently: 1) design and permit documents, 2) compliance with parameters, 3) conformity of work, and 4) material.
Analysis of Risks in Design and Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The concepts of green buildings and modular prefabricated construction have gained increased attention over the past decade. By applying technologies developed throughout the manufacturing sector coupled with those of the environmental movement, these types of structures present a solution to current global demands. Assembled buildings comprise components that are created in factories, then transported to site and erected in place (Lv 2023). This method incorporates many of related advantages, increasing quality and efficiency while reducing safety risks. Erection of assembled buildings have many advantages over traditional construction methods. This is evident by comparison of.
Risk Assessment and Management in Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Construction has become one of the fastest growing industries with a significant impact on local economies [1]. Proper planning and management of risks is essential in completing large (and small) development projects on schedule, within budget and to good quality. That process involves analyzing various risks, classifying them by impact and probability, and formulating mitigation plans. Practical recommendations and improved performance can be obtained by predicting risks and through continued development of response methods. Identification of risks by survey of established construction companies provides us with the following categories: 1) technical, 2) financial, 3).
Understanding Risks in the Construction Industry
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Construction project consist of multiple phases and activities, each one unique and complex. They incorporate the interests of various stakeholders and require the efforts of many different parties [1]. The dynamic nature of design and construction means that risks can and will occur throughout the project phases. Implementing a risk management process (RMP) to prevent these issues and address them as they occur is essential to successful completion. Project management is defined as, “the use of specific knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to deliver something of value to people.” [1] This demands proper utilization.
Design Versatility: Explore the Creative Possibilities of Composite Decking
NeoTimber by Alvina Miller ([email protected]) Nеstlеd bеnеath thе boundlеss canvas of thе sky, architеcturе takеs on drеamlikе forms — It’s a world whеrе imagination marriеs functionality, whеrе spacеs comе alivе with charactеr. In this rеalm of crеativе еxprеssion, a silеnt hеro waits to еmеrgе – grey compositе dеcking. Divе into thе world of architеctural wondеrs, whеrе this innovativе matеrial, a fusion of wood and plastic, paints storiеs of vеrsatilе dеsign possibilitiеs. 1: Evolution of Dеcking Matеrials Traditional Wood Dеcking: A Thing of the Past Tradition oftеn collidеs with modеrn dеmands in architеcturе. For gеnеrations, wood dеcking rеignеd suprеmе, lеnding rustic.
Exploring the Acoustic Benefits of Tufted Panels in Architectural Design
Textile Crafts by Wendy Gill ([email protected]) I. Introduction In thе еvеr-еvolving world of architеctural dеsign, tuftеd panеls havе еmеrgеd as a hiddеn gеm, sеamlеssly blеnding form and function. These unassuming textile crafts offer a remarkable solution that еnhancеs both thе visual aеsthеtics and acoustic comfort of our built еnvironmеnts. In this еxploration, we will uncovеr thе fascinating synеrgy bеtwееn tuftеd panеls and architеctural dеsign, shеdding light on thеir multifacеtеd contributions to spacеs whеrе bеauty and comfort harmoniously coеxist. II. Thе Rolе of Acoustics in Dеsign The Powеr of Acoustics Acoustics, oftеn undеrеstimatеd, havе a profound impact on our еxpеriеncе within.
Analysis of Legal Responsibilities in Joint Ventures
Author Note: ART-IS-ZEN® architecture & engineering 2605 S Decatur Blvd, Ste 123 Box 101 Las Vegas, NV 89102-8591 www.art-is-zen.com Abstract Joint Ventures combine the expertise and resources of multiple parties to perform construction projects. Contract agreements between owners, architects, engineers and contractors must clearly define the scope of work along with the roles and contributions of each party. The terms must be negotiated, agreed upon, and enforceable. New technologies and the collective experience provide opportunities for collaborative partnerships. With increased complexity, shorter timelines, and tighter budgets, legally binding documents are essential to successful project completion. Mutual understanding of contractual obligations.
Launching a Profitable Green-Building Business
by Shirley Martin ([email protected]) Photo Credit: Nikola Jovanovic via Unsplash The world is becoming increasingly conscious of our environmental impact, and businesses are no exception. Green building has become an important factor in creating sustainable and profitable companies. If you’re looking to capitalize on this trend, launching a green-building business can be a great way to do so. ART-IS-ZEN outlines some steps to consider when getting started. Research Relevant Regulations Before you start your business, Business News Daily notes that it’s important to do your research on the relevant local and governmental regulations that may apply in your area. This.
Utilization of Lean Construction in Joint Venture Agreements
Author Note: ART-IS-ZEN® architecture & engineering 2605 S Decatur Blvd, Ste 123 Box 101 Las Vegas, NV 89102-8591 www.art-is-zen.com Abstract Collaboration between design firm and construction organization through the cooperation work of project team members is the key to improving performance, providing greater capabilities and increasing competitiveness while sharing risks and rewards, reducing overall costs and enhancing total value. Joint venture agreements bring together multiple parties under common goals to complete larger and more complex construction projects. These types of contracts should clearly define the scope, schedule and costs of project while online the roles, duties and expectation of party.
Safety Management in Lean Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Project-related incidents and job-site accidents cause significant construction waste, are extremely costly, and create legal issues and financial liabilities. Adopting the principles of lean construction can significant reduce these negative impacts. This management philosophy enhancing the overall quality and performance of building projects through implementation of best practice increasing profitability and delivering greater value [1]. Construction is inherently dangerous and the labor force remains highly unorganized. The working environment is extremely dynamic and demands constant supervision. Barriers exist across all sections due to varying levels of knowledge, skill and language [1]. Adequate safety training,.
Total Quality Management in Sustainable Design and Green Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Improving the sustainability of urban development will rely on integration of green construction. Economic growth, ecological balance, and social equilibrium are the core principles for any stable urban area [1]. This can be achieved by focusing on energy and water efficiency, reducing operating cost, saving non-renewable resources, and improving environmental friendliness. Government standards have been set in many of these areas, and more people—both in and out of the industry—have adopted the mindset towards sustainable development. Total Quality Management (TQM) is the idea applied across service and manufacturing sectors to enhance the quality in.
Integrated Project Delivery Using Building Information Modeling
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The design and construction industry continues to suffer from low productivity and poor performance at a growing cost to owners and investors [1]. Much of this due to inadequate project management and lack of formal communication, leading to misunderstanding and adversarial relationships between team members. Adopting a more collaborative approach and utilizing the integrated project delivery (IPD) system in design-build (DB) multi-party agreements will result in greater project success and increased profitability for all stakeholders. Cost overruns of 50% – 100% are common in large-scale projects, with some even exceeding twice the original estimates.
Transform Your Space Into a Haven With These Simple Tips
by Shirley Martin ([email protected]) As a homeowner, have you ever looked around and felt like your space is no longer inspiring or exciting? Maybe it’s time to rejuvenate your living space and give it a fresh, new look. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to achieve this. In this article, ART-IS-ZEN shares some simple and cost-effective tips to help revive and refresh your home while keeping your budget in check. Bring Life Back to Old Furniture Old furniture can still be in great condition and has a lot of potential to be revived. You can.
Project and Labor Management in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Lean Construction focuses on increase production efficiency while simultaneously reducing waste. These continuous improvements can only be achieved by investing in people, as tools and equipment must be sustained through labor [1]. This concept does not intend to create a stress-free environment, rather a challenging one where personnel can learn and grow by entrusting and empowering them with responsibility and authority. A recent study in Denmark [1] regarding project management, work environment and health & safety, revealed that unrealistic commitment plans and poor communication with management as the most significant issues hindering worker performance..
Implementing Building Information Modeling for Design and Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The construction industry is complex and fragmented [1] unlike manufacturing which has become well-refined and high-automated. Challenges remain in labor productivity and performance which are result in project changes and delays. This coupled with inconsistency in information and misinterpretation of plans result misunderstanding by stakeholders that negatively impact company profitability and project sustainability. The development, implementation and utilization of building information modeling (BIM) software within the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sector provides opportunities to increase productivity and efficiency [1]. This technology is changing the way buildings are designed, constructed and operated. It allows.
Promoting Success and Well-Being Through Lean Construction
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The construction industry continues to be plagued by poor final quality, large budget overruns, low worker efficiency, high frequency of accidents, and huge amounts of waste [1]. With a continually growing demand, managers must explore new ideas and methods to improve performance. Although parallels to the manufacturing industry are often made, a comparison illustrates the opposite in many key areas. Table 1: Aspects of Manufacturing and Construction [1] To reduce the bottleneck occurring during hand-off of the traditional Design-Bid-Build (DBB) method, the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) was developed to bring contractors and inspectors onboard.
Improving Productivity and Performance in Construction Projects
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The success of any construction project is dependent on a wide variety of performance indicators. These greatly affect the labor profitability of a construction company making them commonly discussed and well-debated topic [1]. Manufacturing industries are highly standardized and extremely automated under controlled conditions, so comparisons to this sector are not accurate or entirely relevant. The changing site conditions, variety of building trades, and numerous stakeholders with conflicting interests create an environment where strategic management becomes crucial. Productivity has been important to competitiveness and prosperity since the beginning of industrialization [2]. It can be.
An Investigation of the Design-Build Project Delivery Method
Abstract Material costs, labor shortages and tight schedules have caused architects, engineers and contractors to explore alternate project delivery methods. Overlapping design and build operations in varying degrees has the potential to reduce construction time and production costs. Integrated project delivery and multi-party agreements allow project teams to work in collaborative ways not envisioned by traditional design-bid-build. Lean construction and fast tracking strive the improve quality, reduce waste and avoid conflicts. Building information modeling allows for better planning, while sustainable practices focus on reducing life cycle costs. Research concludes that the design-build method is an improvement over traditional methods of.
A Property Manager’s Guide on How to Start a Custom Build
Article by Shirley Martin, [email protected] Photo by Anete Lusina, Pexels Starting a custom property build can feel daunting, but it might be the best way to build the property portfolio you want. Follow this guide from ART-IS-ZEN architecture + engineering to learn the basics of why you might want to custom-build a property, what to consider, and what to know. Why Do a Custom Build? Whether you’re looking to start or expand your property portfolio, a custom build might be the best choice. Especially if you want to develop an investment property with multiple residences, a custom build could be.
Social, Safety and Economic Concerns within the Construction Industry
Abstract Construction is an essential service and has recently experienced unprecedented growth. A veil of mystery however shrouds the industry for those not directly involved in its daily operations, while its traditions and complexities take decades to master even by those most prevalent in the industry. Gender segregation, ethnic divisions and employment organization create barriers for individuals at all levels. Unique health and safety risks subject the construction laborer to a wide variety of stresses. OSHA was created to ensure the well-being of workers through enforceable standards, education and training. Fatalities and occupational injuries are declining overall but remain higher.
Skeletal Structural Framing Methods in Tall Buildings
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Continued increases in land value within urban centers have given rise to taller and slender structures, both residential and commercial [1]. The framing system used in these is typically dependent upon the building height and construction costs. Low-rise residential buildings are usually platform framed with wood or steel studs often atop a concrete parking area or commercial units. Mid-rise buildings are commonly constructed with steel skeletal frames. High-rises are more likely utilize a concrete superstructure due to compressive strength and fire resistivity. The effects of dead and live loads on these structures increases relative.
Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings
photo credit: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program began in 1993, led by Robert K Watson with support from the US Green Building Council (USGBC) [1]. The goal of the USGBC and the LEED building certification process is to “save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions and create healthier places for people.” [2] Building-related energy consumption accounts for 48% of the total energy consumed by society [3], with commercial buildings accounting for a large portion of total building area. The United States, much like.
Modular and Prefab Methods Used in the Construction of Homes
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect The great Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto once stated in an interview [1], “One of the great problems for an architect today is to save the human being—to make individualism of collectivism.” With the rapidly growing population, current economic crisis, and recent environmental disasters, the need for affordable and sustainable housing has moved into the forefront of discussions throughout the construction industry. Future decisions are based on lessons learned from the past; architectural achievements have always been a testament of the ingenuity of humans throughout the world. Although manufacturing techniques have always relied on economy.
Managing Construction Costs by Implementing New Technologies
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect With growing demands on the construction industry managing both production cost and transaction costs has become critical to the success of a project. Although much emphasis is placed the accuracy of estimates which are a combination of materials and labor, not enough attention is focused on the cost of project management [1]. The emergence of new technologies for use in design, estimating and management provide the opportunity to control the total project cost while balancing the quality of the work against the time spent managing it. The equation presented by [1] expresses the cost.
The Physical Behavior of Traditional Masonry Buildings
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect There is a predominate number of traditional masonry building throughout the Greater Las Vegas Valley. These are defined by the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) [1] in Chapter 6 as Type III construction. Although [2] analyzes these types of structures in Iran where most of these older structures are unreinforced, the ones built in Southern Nevada are typically reinforced and fully grouted. All of these building however exhibit similar material choices and design elements—the walls are masonry, either stone, brick or concrete block supporting wood framed roofs. As with every structure, they react to.
Physical and Social Issues of Migrant Construction Workers
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect Construction projects impact the physical structure of a community in response to current social needs. Construction workers account for the largest subgroup of the 164 million international migrant laborers [1]. These temporary jobs are often filled by low skilled workers from lower income states and countries. This creates new social issues must be addressed by host region and health industry with oversight from researchers, media, the general population and governing bodies. The span of the built environment is vast. It includes residential, commercial and industrial buildings; roads, bridges and walkways; parks, playgrounds and landscaping;.
Construction Variables Affecting Project Success
by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect According to [1] there are six independent variables that affect the outcome of a project. The personnel factor involves the people employed on the project. The administrators factor is about the persons responsible for manage the work. The technical factor includes the both the quality of that work and the applied sciences behind it. The organizational culture factor is defined by [2] as the values, expectations and practices of a project team. The project management factor is explained by [3] as the process by which that team is lead to completes work goals within.
