Benefits Realization: Novel Conceptual Model for Front End–Design Decision-Making Using Dempster–Shafer Theory and Quality Function Deployment
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 147, Issue 7
Abstract
This paper proposes a new conceptual approach to address the gap in the understanding of benefits realization, which is an increasingly central element in the delivery of successful projects in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) design. The paper focuses on the link between uncertainty in front-end design (FED) and the delivery of project benefits as understood in the broader benefits realization theory. The paper builds on the nature of uncertainty and use of Dempster–Shafer theoretic and quality function deployment to model the various interdependences among design attributes. A social housing case study of Brazil’s Mia Casa, Mia Vida Program demonstrated the application of the modeling approach. Optimal belief and plausibility structures in design decision-making were observed to increase with increasing consideration of more use models. These findings demonstrate that modeling uncertainty in FED can contribute to improved design decision-making. The paper’s novel contribution is introducing uncertainty modeling to support design decision-making to overcome insufficiencies in the inherently rational design decision-making that often is unable to discern complexities in dynamic project contexts.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 147 • Issue 7 • July 2021
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© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Jun 30, 2020
Accepted: Nov 24, 2020
Published online: Apr 28, 2021
Published in print: Jul 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Sep 28, 2021
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