MANAGEMENT THOUGHTS IN CONSTRUCTION
Analysis of management thoughts in construction refers to the study and evaluation of
various management theories, models, and approaches applied to the construction
industry. It involves examining the principles, concepts, and practices of management
and their impact on construction projects, organizations, and stakeholders.
The construction industry is complex, dynamic, and fragmented, with numerous
stakeholders, including clients, architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers. Effective
management is crucial to ensure project success, and various management thoughts have
evolved to address the unique challenges of the industry.
THE FUTURE OF MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION
The future of construction management will likely involve a continued focus on:
Integration: Integrating data across the project lifecycle for improved decision-
making.
Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and communication between all stakeholders.
Innovation: Embracing new technologies and management philosophies to
improve efficiency and sustainability.
KEY MANAGEMENT THOUGHTS IN CONSTRUCTION
1. Scientific Management (Taylor):
Emphasizes efficiency and productivity through task specialization and
standardization.
Applied in construction through work study, method study, and activity sampling.
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2. Human Relations (Follett):
Focuses on employee motivation, communication, and participation.
Applied in construction through team building, leadership development, and
conflict resolution.
3. Systems Theory (von Bertalanffy):
Views construction projects as complex systems requiring holistic management.
Applied in construction through systems thinking, integration, and coordination.
4. Contingency Theory (Fiedler):
Adapts management approaches to project-specific situations and contexts.
Applied in construction through situational leadership, flexibility, and adaptability.
5. Lean Construction (Koskela):
Applies lean principles to minimize waste, maximize value, and improve
collaboration.
Applied in construction through lean project management, supply chain
management, and continuous improvement
6. Agile Project Management:
Emphasizes flexibility, iteration, and customer satisfaction.
Applied in construction through agile methodologies, such as Scrum and Kanban.
7. Building Information Modeling (BIM):
Uses digital technologies to create, manage, and share project information.
Applied in construction through BIM implementation, data management, and
collaboration.
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Analysis of management thoughts in construction involves evaluating the strengths and
limitations of each approach, their applicability to different project types and contexts,
and their impact on project outcomes, such as cost, time, quality, and safety.
Analysis of management thoughts in construction is essential for effective project
management, organizational success, and industry development. It enables construction
professionals to critically evaluate and apply management theories, models, and
approaches to deliver successful projects and contribute to the growth of the construction
industry.
THE USE OF ELECTRONIC COMPUTERS IN FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS,
DESIGN AND EXECUTION FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
1. FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS
The use of electronic computers in feasibility analysis for construction projects involves
applying computer software and technology to evaluate the viability of a project. Here are
the details of how computers are used in each stage of feasibility analysis:
1. Project Conceptualization:
- Computers help generate ideas and concepts through computer-aided design
(CAD) software and building information modeling (BIM).
- Architects and engineers use software like Revit, ArchiCAD, and SketchUp to
create digital models and visualize the project.
2. Site Analysis:
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software like ArcGIS and QGIS analyze
site conditions, including topography, climate, and environmental factors.
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- Computers process satellite imagery and aerial photos to assess site constraints and
opportunities.
3. Market Analysis:
- Computers analyze market trends, demand, and competition using software like
Excel, SPSS, and R.
- Data on population growth, economic indicators, and demographic trends are
processed to forecast project demand.
4. Financial Analysis:
- Computers run financial models using software like Excel, @RISK, and Crystal
Ball to estimate costs, revenues, and profits.
- Sensitivity analysis and scenario planning help identify potential risks and
opportunities.
5. Technical Analysis:
- Computers simulate building performance using software like EnergyPlus,
eQUEST, and IESVE.
- Structural analysis software like STAAD, ETABS, and SAP2000 evaluate the
building's structural integrity.
6. Environmental Impact Assessment:
- Computers analyze environmental factors like noise pollution, air quality, and
water usage using software like EIA Toolkit and EnviroSuite.
- GIS software helps identify potential environmental hazards and mitigation
measures.
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7. Risk Analysis:
- Computers run risk simulations using software like @RISK and Crystal Ball to
identify potential risks and their impact.
- Sensitivity analysis helps identify critical variables affecting project feasibility.
8. Report Generation:
- Computers generate comprehensive reports and presentations using software like
Word, PowerPoint, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Reports include project descriptions, market analysis, financial projections,
technical specifications, and recommendations.
Computer-aided feasibility analysis enables construction professionals to make informed
decisions, identify potential risks and opportunities, and develop viable project plans.
2. DESIGN
The use of electronic computers in design for construction projects involves applying
computer-aided design (CAD) software and other technologies to create, modify, and
analyze digital models of buildings and infrastructure. Here are the details of how
computers are used in each stage of design:
1. Schematic Design:
- Architects and engineers use CAD software like AutoCAD, Revit, and
ArchiCAD to create initial design concepts and sketches.
- Computers help generate and explore different design options, including
floor plans, elevations, and sections.
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2. Design Development:
- Computers aid in refining the design, including spatial relationships,
materials, and structural systems.
- Software like Revit, Navisworks, and Graphisoft enables collaboration and
clash detection among architects, engineers, and contractors.
3. Building Information Modeling (BIM):
- Computers create detailed digital models, integrating architectural,
structural, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) components.
- BIM software like Revit, Navisworks, and Graphisoft enables data sharing,
analysis, and simulation.
4. Structural Analysis:
- Computers run simulations to test structural integrity, stress, and load
calculations using software like STAAD, ETABS, and SAP2000.
- Analysis helps optimize structural systems, materials, and construction
methods.
5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:
- Computers analyze building energy consumption and suggest
improvements using software like EnergyPlus, eQUEST, and IESVE.
- Simulation tools like Revit and Graphisoft help optimize building
orientation, insulation, and renewable energy systems.
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6. Visualization and Rendering:
- Computers generate photorealistic images and animations using software
like 3ds Max, SketchUp, and Blender.
- Visualization aids communication among stakeholders and helps refine the
design.
7. Documentation and Drafting:
- Computers automate the creation of construction documents, including
drawings and specifications.
- Software like AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam help generate and manage
documents.
8. Collaboration and Data Management:
- Computers facilitate collaboration among project stakeholders through
cloud-based platforms like BIM 360, Procore, and PlanGrid.
- Data management software like Revit and Graphisoft helps track changes,
versions, and approvals.
Computer-aided design enables construction professionals to create complex designs,
simulate performance, and optimize building systems, leading to better project outcomes
and improved building performance.
3. EXECUTION
The use of electronic computers in execution for construction projects involves applying
computer software and technology to manage and control the construction process. Here
are the details of how computers are used in each stage of execution:
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1. Project Management:
- Computers aid in scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking
using software like MS Project, Primavera, and Asta.
- Project management information systems (PMIS) like Procore, PlanGrid,
and Bluebeam facilitate collaboration and data sharing.
2. Construction Management:
- Computers help manage and coordinate construction activities, including
site management, material procurement, and labor allocation.
- Software like Procore, PlanGrid, and Bluebeam enables real-time
monitoring and control of construction progress.
3. Quality Control and Assurance:
- Computers aid in quality control and assurance through automated
inspection and testing software like Bluebeam and Procore.
- Software like Revit and Graphisoft helps ensure compliance with building
codes and regulations.
4. Safety Management:
- Computers help identify and mitigate safety risks using software like
Procore and PlanGrid.
- Safety management software like SafetyPlus and RiskWatch enables
incident reporting and analysis.
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5. Cost Control and Accounting:
- Computers aid in cost estimation, budgeting, and cost control using
software like Excel, Primavera, and Asta.
- Accounting software like QuickBooks and SAP enables financial
management and reporting.
6. Material Management:
- Computers help manage material procurement, inventory, and logistics
using software like Procore and PlanGrid.
- Material management software like TradeGecko and Zoho Inventory
enables real-time tracking and optimization.
7. Labor Management:
- Computers aid in labor allocation, scheduling, and productivity tracking
using software like Procore and PlanGrid.
- Labor management software like Workforce and LaborSync enables real-
time monitoring and optimization.
8. Communication and Collaboration:
- Computers facilitate communication and collaboration among project
stakeholders through email, messaging apps, and video conferencing.
- Collaboration software like Slack and Microsoft Teams enables real-time
communication and data sharing.
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9. Site Management:
- Computers aid in site management, including site preparation, layout, and
monitoring using software like Procore and PlanGrid.
- Site management software like SiteMax and SiteManager enables real-time
monitoring and control of site activities.
10. Commissioning and Handover:
- Computers help ensure a smooth transition from construction to operation
using software like Procore and PlanGrid.
- Commissioning and handover software like Commissioning Wizard and
HandoverPro enables efficient project close-out and handover.
By leveraging electronic computers in Feasibility Analysis, Design and Execution,
construction projects can:
Improve accuracy and speed
Enhance collaboration and communication
Increase efficiency and productivity
Reduce errors and costs
Facilitate real-time monitoring and control
Enable data-driven decision-making
Enhance data analysis and visualization
Facilitate collaboration and communication among stakeholders
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Computer-aided execution enables construction professionals to streamline the
construction process, improve project outcomes, and reduce risks, leading to successful
project delivery and improved building performance.
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REFERENCES
3rd Forum "International Construction Project Management" 26th/27 June 2003 in
Berlin
Patrick, C. (2003). Construction Project Planning and Scheduling (1st ed.) Prentice
HallCM.
Construction Management: Project Delivery Methods. (2017). LinkedIn. Retrieved
November 1, 2023, from https://www.linkedin.com/learning/construction-
management-project-delivery-methods/what-you-need-to-know?
autoSkip=true&resume=false&u=2167290.
Barbara J. Jackson (2010). Construction Management Jumpstart (2nd ed.). Indianapolis,
Indiana: Wiley.
"CMAA". CMAA (in Afrikaans). Archived from the original on 2015-07-24.
Retrieved 2015-07-22.
Gerardo Viera (September 2008). "What Is Construction Project Management?". PM
Hut. Archived from the original on 2010-04-20. Retrieved 2010-07-04.
Ricardo; Gonzalez, Vicente (3 March 2015). "A Production Model for Construction: A
Theoretical Framework". Buildings. 5 (1): 209 228.
Minks, William (2011). Construction Jobsite Management.
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