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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