Construction management

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://digital.lib.washington.edu/handle/1773/19677

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Scan-to-BIM Process Framework for Energy Retrofits of Academic Facilities
(2026-04-20) Acheampong, Michael; Darko, Amos; Lee, Hyun Woo
Aging academic buildings present significant challenges for operational energy retrofit planning due to incomplete documentation and evolving building conditions and the resource intensity of reconstructing reliable as-existing records. At the knowledge level, while scan-to-BIM research has advanced geometric reconstruction and automation, existing approaches have not been structured around the specific informational requirements of operational energy retrofit planning in institutional contexts, a gap this study addresses. The aim of this study is to develop and demonstrate a structured scan-to-BIM framework tailored to support operational energy retrofit planning in aging academic facilities. This aim is pursued through the following objectives: to identify limitations and challenges in existing scan-to-BIM approaches for energy retrofit contexts; to design an integrated framework; to implement it in a real-world case study and identify implementation challenges; and to evaluate its practical relevance through practitioner feedback. The central research question is: how should a scan-to-BIM workflow be structured to support operational energy retrofit planning in academic buildings? Using a Design Science Research methodology, this study develops a structured four-stage scan-to-BIM framework that integrates energy-oriented considerations from data acquisition through BIM model readiness. Framework development was informed by a structured literature review of scan-to-BIM technologies, BIM-based energy modeling, and operational energy retrofit practice in academic facilities. The framework was demonstrated through a case study implementation in a century-old academic facility using terrestrial laser scanning and BIM reconstruction. Implementation included structured acquisition planning, segmented point cloud processing, and development of an enclosure-consistent BIM model prepared for future energy attribute integration. The framework was then evaluated through semi-structured interviews with six facilities management professionals; interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis. To evaluate practical relevance, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six facilities management professionals. Thematic analysis revealed strong support for improved documentation reliability and retrofit scoping clarity, while highlighting concerns regarding modeling granularity and mechanical system representation. The findings suggest that aligning scan planning and BIM structuring with energy retrofit objectives can enhance decision-support capability within institutional contexts. Theoretically, this study contributes to the scan-to-BIM literature by repositioning operational energy retrofit requirements as a governing driver of workflow structure rather than a downstream consideration — an integration not previously formalized for academic facility contexts. While full energy simulation integration was beyond the scope of this study, the proposed framework establishes a structured foundation for energy-oriented scan-to-BIM workflows in academic facilities.
Nailed it: How Work Passion Relates to Safety Behavior Amongst Construction Foremen
(2026-04-20) Pandey, Prabidhi; Lin, Ken-Yu
The construction industry is one of the most physically dangerous fields in the world. Traditionally, safety research has focused on environmental hazards, organizational capacity, etc. More recently, psychological factors are recognized as critical in shaping safety behaviour. Among which, workplace passion is a powerful and entirely unexplored factor within construction safety research. This study investigated the relationship between work passion and safety behaviour. The research employed a questionnaire based on two existing validated scales- the Work Passion Scale (WPS) measuring four dimensions: Work Enjoyment, Self Motivation, Self Identity, and Sense of Learning, and the Safety Behaviour Scale (SBS). The respondents were experienced (M = 19.9 years), foremen (M = 43.2 years) spanning 51 different trades and approximately 50 different companies. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between overall Work Passion and Safety Behaviour (r = 0.322, p = .001). However, a dimensional specific analysis showed that Self Identity had the strongest relationship with safety behaviour (r = 0.451, p < .001), followed by Sense of Learning (r = 0.339, p < .001). Whereas Work Enjoyment (r = 0.096, p = .340) and Self Motivation (r = 0.091, p = .364) showed no significant relationship. These findings suggest that work passion can impact safety behaviour specifically in identity-based and learning-oriented dimensions. The study provides practical implications for the construction industry in recommending a shift from a compliance-oriented safety environment to a commitment oriented one.
Collaborative Project Delivery Governance and Shared Leadership in AEC Building Virtual Teams
(2025-10-02) Hochstatter, Kirk; Sturts Dossick, Carrie
The emergence of collaborative project delivery (CPD) methods in the architect, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has brought a focus on how teams can better work together to achieve common goals. Whether it be through multi-party agreements, lean construction tools, or empowerment of decision-making, these projects have leveraged supporting the collaborative behaviors of their stakeholders to lead to better outcomes. A critical part of creating a culture of collaboration on these projects is the role of leadership that is played out by multiple individuals that can also be described as shared leadership (SL). If these projects are intended to create a culture of SL on their projects, what mechanisms should be used to meet these objectives? This research seeks out to address what mechanisms are impacting the formation of SL on CPD projects by examining the informal governance (IG) of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, structural engineering, and architectural (MEPFSA) coordination team. Through a case study approach of a project's MEPFSA coordination team, I developed five focused case analyses where I could examine their unique CPD IG and assess the emergence of SL. The IG examination was accomplished through qualitative methods that consisted of interviews with individual MEPFSA coordination team members and field observations to witness their practices in real time. To identify the emergence of SL, a quantitative survey, the Shared Leadership Questionnaire (SLQ), I was distributed to the MEPFSA coordination team. Based on the findings from these case studies, this research was able to suggest that there is evidence that the IG of the MEPFSA coordination teams impacted the formation of SL and dives into how the IG elements of team organization, decision making, team building, communication systems and workspaces played a role. Specific insights into the impacts of IG on SL formation included the role of a facilitator that can lead the technical aspects of MEPFSA BIM coordination as well as guide the team through the selected project delivery approach, how CPD governance can influence the formation of SL, and how SL uniquely appears in AEC building construction teams.
Augmented Green Twin for Building Energy Optimization
(2025-08-01) Apeatu, Michael Ankrah; Darko, Amos
Optimizing energy use in buildings has become critical as global sustainability and carbon reduction goals accelerate. This study explores the potential of an innovative framework, Augmented Green Twin (AGT), which combines digital twin technology with augmented intelligence to enhance the operational energy efficiency of buildings. Specifically, it investigates AGT as a transformative approach to optimizing building energy consumption, focusing on technical performance and user engagement. Traditional building management systems face significant limitations, including static energy modelling, poor real-time adaptability, disconnected system integration, and oversight of human behavioural factors. These challenges often result in inefficient energy use and suboptimal occupant comfort. This study develops a conceptual AGT framework to guide future energy optimization strategies based on insights from a comprehensive literature review and stakeholder interviews. The framework is designed to leverage real-time data and augmented intelligence to enable adaptive, dynamic monitoring and energy usage adjustment in response to traditional systems' identified limitations. By incorporating a variety of data inputs, such as sensor data, weather data, occupancy patterns, and user feedback, AGT can provide a more responsive and personalized energy management solution. AGT integrates predictive analytics, enabling the system to anticipate future energy demands and proactively address potential issues. It emphasizes a human-in-the-loop approach, ensuring that occupant preferences, behaviours, and comfort are actively incorporated into energy optimization strategies. It also identifies potential challenges to the practical implementation and scalability of the proposed AGT framework. It is identified that despite its potential, successful deployment of the framework will require addressing challenges regarding the integration of legacy systems, data security, and user acceptance. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by offering valuable insights into the potential and challenges of AGT for building energy optimization.
Correlates of Active Commuting Frequency: Investigating Associations between Student Characteristics and Walking and Biking to School in Seattle and Washington State
(2025-08-01) Fan, Shaojia; Wu, Lingzi LW
This research examines the correlates of active commuting among students, comparing Seattle and statewide populations in Washington State. Utilizing descriptive statistics and correlation analyses, the study identifies critical factors associated with students' decisions to walk or bike to school. Key findings include obesity negatively predicting active commuting, notably reducing daily walking rates. Conversely, frequent physical activity significantly correlates with higher active commuting behaviors, suggesting mutually reinforcing health practices. Notably, commuting frequency peaks at Grade 8 and declines in later grades, emphasizing the need for age-specific interventions. Additionally, urban infrastructure significantly supports higher active commuting rates in Seattle compared to statewide averages.Recommendations emerging from these findings emphasize prioritizing infrastructure development in suburban and rural areas, enhancing Safe Routes to School programs, and implementing comprehensive health education curricula. Schools should introduce motivational initiatives like walking school buses or incentive programs, particularly targeting students in higher grades. These targeted interventions promise to enhance student health outcomes and foster sustainable commuting practices, addressing both local and broader community contexts.
To Build or Not to Build: Risk-Based Screening Tool for Selecting Existing Commercial Office Buildings for Conversion to Multifamily Residential: Seattle Perspective
(2025-05-12) Vasudeva, Chitika; Lee, Hyun Woo
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, office vacancy rates have increased substantially, contributing to blight in dense urban cores. At the same time, the demand for housing remains high. Meanwhile, the built environment is responsible for 40% of global carbon emissions, significantly contributing to climate change. In Seattle, Washington, recent legislative efforts around office-to-residential conversions reflect an interest in addressing vacancy concerns, creating more housing stock, and bolstering sustainability and resiliency. However, concerns exist regarding the high uncertainty of such conversions, as there is no standardized approach for risk management. As a result, the decision to proceed with potential office-to-residential conversions is often made on a case-by-case basis. In response, this study aims to develop a qualitative risk-based screening tool to evaluate the viability of a given Seattle office building for conversion to multifamily residential, based on a list of factors that impact conversion feasibility. The literature review establishes a direct correlation between building features and conversion feasibility. Repurposing a building for a different use entails new spatial, functional, and code requirements, affecting conversion costs and, therefore, financial risk — a major decision-making factor. To understand the factors with the greatest impact on conversions, professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry are interviewed about their experiences with office-to-residential (O2R) conversions, highlighting the most impactful factors. Interview results are analyzed to create the O2R Screening Tool — a checklist — for professionals to use in preliminary screening of potential office-to-residential candidates. To test the applicability and effectiveness of the checklist in prioritizing the most viable buildings for conversion, a twofold validation process involving (i) a multi-case study and (ii) an online survey of industry experts is conducted. The main study outcome is a decision-making approach that identifies factors likely to pose challenges to a conversion and therefore serves as a risk management strategy for office-to-residential conversions. The findings of this study will help stakeholders and policymakers qualitatively understand the feasibility of converting existing office stock and focus strategies towards the most feasible candidates.
When Hatch-Marks Miss the Mark: Incorporating Finishes into BIM
(2025-01-23) Dawson, Monica; Sturts Dossick, Carrie
This research studies how Finish Materials are depicted in architectural blue-prints and drawings. It examines how they are commonly represented via the hatch-mark and seeks to improve this representation. By first defining historical use and then analyzing the current uses of the hatch-mark in today’s different softwares, the study identifies gaps in both industry standardization and basic functionality. Both a Literature Review and Technical Review were performed to find out how well the hatch-mark tools work. These reviews identified a “Benchmark Hatch-Mark” to aid in construction and communication for the finish trades. These criteria and model were then applied to a case study of a landscaped green roof of a wastewater pump station. Through a mixed-method approach, the benchmark criteria were tested in drawings, real-world installation, and interviews. The goal is to make 3D Finish Models more accurate and improve clash detection. This will in turn move BIM technology forward.
Digital Twin for Energy Management in Residential Net Zero Energy Buildings
(2024-09-09) Singh, Ivy T; Dossick, Carrie S
Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) have been increasingly gaining attention in the construction industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change. The need for net zero is part of the current climate action plan of the United States government which has its long-term strategy to achieve net zero in every sector including built environment by 2050. While extant research provides many valuable insights into the framework applications of Digital Twin (DT) for energy efficiency (and even net zero) in projects, industry participants remain concerned over its possible implementation based on the current resources available.A major gap found is the lack of literature for present net zero energy management in buildings especially for residential sector. Most of the energy optimization strategies for these net zero projects were proposals or strategies used for the design and construction phases and there was minimum focus on operations phase in literature that explored the how or what is being used to manage that energy and verify that the buildings remain as net zero after several years. The current literature also only focuses on the theoretical proposals for DT’s application but not the industry applications and so it is vital to address the practical reliability of this technology’s use in the industry and to understand the extent to which a DT can be practically useful in case of net zero projects. These gaps develop the purpose of this research is exploring the industry potential of Digital Twin technology to optimize energy management in residential Net Zero Energy Buildings. To achieve this aim, a thorough literature review and interviews with industry professionals were conducted for understanding the current state of practice in the industry to dive deep into how energy is being controlled and what energy data is being monitored and managed in the ‘existing’ net zero energy buildings. And to improve on the current state of practice, Digital twin’s implementation in the energy management framework is reviewed and a suggestive framework is developed. By exploring the intersection of DT in NZEBs through this research, the important factors for viable implementation of DT and its current progress, for energy management in residential NZEBs is address. The findings included that the tools and components used currently for energy management are the components which the digital twin technology is composed of and how the digital twin can integrate all these different siloed components and tools in one single platform and what different paths can be taken. The novel theoretical contribution of this study is development of a theoretical framework for incorporating DT in the current energy management system for residential NZEBs and practical contributions of this study is to the acceleration or ‘to make possible – the goal’ of achieving net zero by 2050.
The BIM in Practice in the Real World
(2024-09-09) Das, Anik; Dossick, Carrie Sturts
The construction industry is undergoing rapid technological advancements with the introduction of Building Information Modeling (BIM) which has the potential to revolutionize building design, construction, and operation. Despite their potential, these technologies are not yet put into practice to the maximum potential by all the users around the world. This research explores the current state of BIM in the construction industry and the different types of processes undertaken by BIM professionals to enhance the efficiency and productivity of a project. The study revolves around some of the parameters such as accuracy, efficiency, quality, and time. This is done through several different case studies across different verticals of construction. The journey shows us a unique perspective that the BIM teams have adopted to take the project to a higher level. It also depicts the need to usage of automation although there is a need to have a balance and there should be a clear understanding of when to rely on automation.
Developing a Cost Framework for Smart Building Adoption
(2024-09-09) Steele, Andrew David; Dossick, Carrie S
This research explores the various costs associated with smart building adoption, with particular focus on Internet of Things (IoT) enabled building automation systems (BAS). Through a comprehensive literature review and qualitative interviews with industry professionals, the research identifies and validates cost categories from various perspectives, including across the building lifecycle. Three cost frameworks are presented, each offering a unique underlying structure: categorization by building phase, by nature and scope, and by timing and visibility. The final integrated framework presents costs in terms of 1) upfront and visible, 2) hidden and long-term, 3) lifecycle and strategic, and 4) organizational and societal considerations. Central cost themes visible in all the developed frameworks include sensor deployment, data management, cybersecurity, and organizational efficiency. The research addresses gaps in the existing literature, such as the lack of comprehensive cost frameworks. Through an expressed commitment to conducting research in academic and industry partnership, this research develops cost frameworks to be leveraged by industry and researchers alike in the consideration of smart building adoption efforts. This research implements a robust methodology, grounded in literature and sound research practice, to overcome various limitations of this research such as limited sample size and the continually evolving nature of smart building technologies. Further research is encouraged to expand upon the results of these findings to further enhance understanding of BAS cost and develop the quantifiable aspects of smart building adoption and their associated business cases.
Analysis of Extension of Time and Suspension of Work Provisions in Standard Specifications for Highways
(2024-04-26) Ordonez Forero, Laura Melissa; AZIZ, AHMED M. ABDEL AZIZ A
Construction projects are often faced with unforeseen events that require adjustments to project schedules or temporary suspension of work. To deal with these contingencies, the U.S. Departments of Transportation (DOTs) provide guidelines and regulations in their Standard Specifications (SSs) documents. However, several states exhibit a deficiency in providing crucial information and clarity regarding the approval reasons for extensions of time (EOT) or suspensions of work (SOW). This thesis conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of the extension and suspension of work clauses in all U.S. DOT standard specifications. The research methodology includes a comprehensive literature review and a detailed examination of state-specific sections of the standard specifications. By identifying commonalities and variations, this study aims to uncover key differences in the reasons and criteria for granting extensions of time, suspension of work, and provide a guideline of each section to standardize it in future practices. Standardizing approval reasons across states could ensure consistency and also transparency in decision-making processes.
The Impact of Project Delivery Methods on Subcontracting: USAF Construction Projects Case Study
(2024-04-26) Hall, Aaron Marc; Migliaccio, Giovanni
This thesis investigates subcontracting practices in the construction industry, specifically focusing on U.S. Air Force (USAF) construction projects. It explores the nuances and challenges of different project delivery methods, namely Design-Bid-Build (DBB) and Design-Build (DB), and their impact on subcontracting. The study builds upon existing research, emphasizing the influence of prime contracts on subcontractor selection, project management, risk and scope sharing, contract specifications, and financial considerations. The research uncovers key trends and preferences in subcontractor qualifications through comprehensive interviews with industry professionals, highlighting a priority on technical expertise and local knowledge over cost. It examines the complexities in project execution under DBB and DB methods, revealing the efficiency of Design-Build Subcontracting (DBS) in reducing project delays and enhancing collaboration. The study also delves into the risk distribution in subcontracting, finding that DB fosters shared risk and trust among contractors, contrasting the more risk-averse nature of DBB. Furthermore, the thesis addresses contract and specification challenges specific to Air Force projects, such as outdated designs and the necessity for proprietary products. It discusses the financial implications of subcontracting, including the potential for inflated costs due to project uncertainties and niche subcontractor markets. Conclusively, the thesis identifies gaps in current knowledge and suggests directions for future research, advocating for a broader exploration of subcontracting practices in various military and federal contexts and a deeper understanding of subcontractor perspectives. This work contributes to the discourse on subcontracting in construction, offering valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers engaged in USAF and similar large-scale construction projects.
Optimizing Mass Timber Bay Size in terms of Costs and EC Emission
(2023-04-17) OH, YONG-HYUK; Lee, Hyun Woo
The built environment accounts for the largest portion of global carbon emissions. In particular, carbon emissions known as embodied carbon (EC) emitted from traditional building structures such as concrete and steel frames accounts for one-third of the total emissions. In the future, the proportion of EC is expected to increase further and in response to this, a significant amount of studies suggest the use of mass timber structure as a low carbon solution. However, the cost of mass timber is still relatively high compared to traditional material, which is a primary reason that mass timber is still under-utilized. In addition, studies on optimization of mass timber bay size, which can be an effective method to lower costs and EC emission, are limited. That makes it difficult to identify the optimal alternatives in terms of cost and EC emission under current mass timber design processes. To fill this knowledge gap, this study aims to develop a new approach—named the timber bay cost and carbon optimization approach (TBCCOA)—which can support effective comparison between various mass timber alternatives in terms of volume, cost and EC emission in the initial design stage. To demonstrate the validity and usability of the TBCCOA, I developed two scenarios, and valuable findings on optimization of mass timber bay size were discovered by comparing the cost and EC emission of diverse virtual structure alternatives. The key findings of the scenarios include that (1) 6 m Ã 6 m is the optimal bay size for mass timber structure in terms of volume, cost and EC emission in general and (2) the application of square bay is more efficient than the rectangular bay. These results of the present study can support project stakeholders, when adopting mass timber as building structure, to reduce construction costs and EC emission of buildings at the initial design stage, as a way to mitigate global climate change. In addition, future researchers can utilize the information derived from this study as a stepping stone for bay size standardization of mass timber buildings.
Blockchain-based supply chain schedule coordination for off-site construction
(2023-04-17) Zhao, Xianxiang; Kim, Yong-Woo Y.; Wu, Lingzi L.
Compared to traditional on-site construction, off-site construction shifts its primary workflow from the field to the factory. This kind of transformation also causes the key to success in construction switches from various field operations to supply chain management. At the same time, the participants in the construction supply chain often have a silo mindset, which means they are often reluctant to share their information to improve the overall supply chain performance. This research used the design science method to develop a prototype artifact as a possible solution for unreliable schedule planning. A streamlined supply chain workflow and a blockchain-based prototype have been built. The shared information structure has been realized in a smart contract. Compared with the traditional workflow, the proposed method gives a transparent and reliable way to improve supply chain performance. After the development of the prototype, its functionality was tested with a test environment in the validation section. As a contribution to the current body of knowledge, this research explored the potential opportunity to implement blockchain in supply chain schedule coordination and management.
Optimization of energy through BIM in the construction industry
(2023-04-17) Ritu, Ritu; Dossick, Carrie
University of WashingtonAbstract Optimization of energy through BIM in the construction industry Ritu Chair of Supervisory Committee: Carrie Sturts Dossick Department of Construction Management The construction industry is experiencing rapid technological advancements with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Building Energy Modeling (BEM), which have the potential to revolutionize how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. These technologies are not well practiced and there is lot of confusion regarding the use of these technologies. This research is conducted to explore the on the current state of BIM and BEM in construction industry, data exchange between BIM and BEM, the need for enhanced education and training in these domains, Tools and methods used for BIM and BEM and the impact of integrating BIM and BEM closely on time and resources. The study also emphasizes difficulties associated with the adoption of BIM and BEM, emphasizing the obstacles to data exchange such as compatibility, integrity, and standardization. Despite these challenges, the study highlights the benefits of integrating these systems, including improved collaboration, decision-making, and building efficiency. In addition, the thesis highlights the importance of education and training in BIM and BEM and underscores the significance of acknowledging the benefits of integrating these systems to improve building energy performance and promote sustainable development. While the advantages of implementing BIM and BEM are open to debate, there are some participants who expressed that the investment of time and money may not be justified. Overall, BIM and BEM are becoming critical in achieving building energy goals in the construction industry. However, challenges exist in exchanging information between the design and simulation domains, time and cost that must be addressed to ensure their continued relevance and usefulness in the long-term.
A Cost-estimating Building Information Modeling Tool Developed on Sketchup Platform for Single-Family Residential Design
(2023-01-21) Wen, Qisheng; Bender, Bill
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become a popular tool in design and construction. Despite its wide applications, the cost-estimating function of BIM is not robust enough, especially for projects in the schematic design stage. One hurdle for BIM-based estimating is that the architects’ 3D models lack cost information. Architects typically do not have the necessary information of cost until the late design stage, when estimates are provided by contractors. To overcome that hurdle, this research invents a new estimating tool on the platform of Sketchup. This tool integrates the contractor’s cost-estimate database with architects’ knowledge base. It leverages BIM technology to provide simple and reliable cost estimates for single-family housing projects. With this tool, architects can easily estimate construction cost from their schematic Sketchup models.
Analysis of Liquidated Damages Provisions of Highway Standard Specifications in the USA
(2022-09-23) Muiruri, Kevin Mbugua; Abdel Aziz, Ahmed M
A construction schedule is a plan outlining the order and timing of the activities ofconstruction in a project. Specifications may stipulate a course of action or penalties if the progress of work falls short of the defined Schedule. To ensure uniform state-wide guidelines in construction, each Department of Transportation (DOT) developed a set of Standard Specifications throughout the United States of America. The analysis of Standard Specifications developed by DOTs in each State reveals stark differences in their implementation of schedule requirements and the consequences of nonconformance to the schedules. This research work investigates the scheduling provisions implemented by all the state DOTs. Using content analysis and statistical analysis, the research objectives are to identify the various forms of schedule non-conformances, consequences of non-conformances, and Liquidated Damages as specified in all 50 Department of Transportation Standard Specifications. The data obtained from the review are analyzed and put into charts and tables to show how the states differed or agreed on the non-conformances, LDs, and the impact of non-conformance. Descriptive and regression analyses of the states' liquidated damages are undertaken to show the various data points, the ranges of liquidated damages, and to uncover an LD model that captures the estimated LDs charges from aggregated
Investigating the Factors Responsible for the Material Delivery Time Variance in the Construction Supply Chain of Prefabricated Products
(2022-07-14) Bhore, Shreyas; Kim, Yong-Woo
The construction industry is a complex structure of various bodies that contributes in a unique way such that their proper workflow ensures project success. It is a known practice in the construction industry to change the scheduled material delivery date too often, asking how reliable is the material order variability? How does the system react to that variability? What are the reasons behind that order variability? This research investigates the material delivery order reliability in the construction supply chain for prefabricated products. Qualitative data will support statistical analysis, and the system dynamics model will show the connectivity between the variables. The system dynamics model will be used to understand the working of the order variability environment, which qualitative data will back. The quantitative data showed thepattern that most of the material resulted in skewing right and with leptokurtic distribution denoting that the material was ordered earlier than scheduled, and the variability pattern was unstable and unpredictable. On the other hand, the qualitative data provided reasoning for material delivery variances noting 11 critical points.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY PRACTICES IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST BUILT ENVIRONMENT, ENABLERS AND BARRIERS
(2022-07-14) Salazar-Izquierdo, Ruben; Migliaccio, Giovanni
Construction is a highly resource-consuming industry. Over the last few years, various events have created disruptions and acceleration in the delivery of construction projects that have magnified how intensive is the use of raw materials and finished goods for construction. Further, this intensity translates into also producing a massive amount of waste annually. The construction industry is now looking for innovative solutions to mitigate the negative environmental impact caused by the whole industry. New models proposed by other industries have been adapted and introduced into construction, including the concept of Circular Economy. Circular Economy is an economic model that has emerged in recent years and its main goal is to keep the materials at their highest value in a closed loop. This thesis relies on an extensive literature review that allowed to identify 12 Circular Economy practices and was followed up with a survey and interviews among a selected number of construction professionals. Fifteen industry representatives were inquired about these practices, their experience with implementing them as well as the enablers and barriers to each of them, and the stakeholders that drive the decision of implementing these practices on their projects. This research serves as an exploratory study and aims understanding what circular economy practices have a high potential to be implemented in the PNW and outline a framework to boost their implementation.
Adoption and Implementation of Digital Twin in the Construction Industry
(2022-07-14) Gautam, Bijesh Kumar; Dossick, Carrie S
The construction industry has evolved from a period of hand-drafted drawings to Building Information Modeling (BIM). However, in current practice, disjointed single-purpose tools created to improve communication do not fully solve information management challenges leading to suboptimal building performance in the industry. Therefore, industries are embracing a new generation of interconnected, multi-functional technologies like Digital Twin to digitally transform themselves and move beyond the margin of 3D visualization capabilities of BIM to actual production, operation, and management of building facilities. Now we can see that the leading construction industries are giving priority to implementing Digital Twin in their companies. Almost half of the major industrial companies were predicted to use Digital Twin technology by 2021, achieving a 10% enhancement in their efficiency. In 2018, the market for global Digital Twin was valued to be USD $3.2 billion and is predicted to reach USD $29.1 billion by 2025. One of the prominent global research and advisory firms Gartner listed Digital Twin in the top ten list of emerging technology trends in 2019. Also, the Digital Twin market is predicted to grow around ten times in 2025 reaching USD $27.06 billion then back in 2017 of USD $2.26 billion by Grand View Research Forecasts. These predictions indicate that there will be milestone progress in the adoption and implementation of Digital Twins in the construction industry. Despite its high potential, the majority of people in the construction industry are still confused about the concept of Digital Twin technology. They are not sure what Digital Twin technology is, how it is implemented, what Digital Twin tools need to be used, and what challenges and benefits they have by having a Digital Twin system. Hence to have an in-depth idea of the Digital Twin adoption and implementation in the construction industry, this research is conducted with the aim to answer the above questions. The research is conducted with a comprehensive literature review supported by an exploratory survey and follow-up interviews. Based on the research results, we can conclude that there is still confusion about the concept of Digital Twin in the construction Industry. The construction industry has started its journey towards digitalization but still, there are lots of things that need to be done. For example, having standard and concise data or making more collaborative environments with common data platforms can help us to implement the Digital Twin in the construction industry. Also, it requires the organizational readiness to accept changes and advancements in the industry. Overall, this research shows that the construction industry is now ready for some changes, and that change can be Digital Twin.

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