Construction Engineering Research: Integration and Innovation
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 144, Issue 3
Abstract
Construction engineers play a major role in the built environment by designing construction facilities and field operations and supplying materials. This paper summarizes and synthesizes the results of a research program to increase understanding and effectiveness of two key construction engineering focus areas: integration of project activities, and increasing innovation. Key findings related to project integration include planning activities to improve constructability and foster use of major construction methods. The integration research also included identifying constructability knowledge and using project models to increase its availability for designers. The second main theme of the research is process and product innovation. This investigation used case studies of innovative projects to identify major differences. This increased understanding led to overall findings regarding innovative design and construction organizations and projects and to highlight recommendations for practical applications to increase the scope and rate of innovation in practice. Both parts of the paper contribute to the core body of knowledge regarding construction engineering activities and their vital role in improving project performance in meeting cost, schedule, safety, quality, and sustainability objectives.
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Data Availability Statement
All data generated or analyzed during the study are included in the published paper. Information about the Journal’s data sharing policy can be found here: http://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/%28ASCE%29CO.1943-7862.0001263
Acknowledgments
This paper further elaborates and illustrates the main points from the author′s Peurifoy Construction Advancement Address delivered at the Construction Research Council Congress, Montreal, Canada, May 30, 2013. The author greatly appreciates receipt of this award and will further describe the work of the many research assistants who made major contributions to the case studies and analysis.
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Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 144 • Issue 3 • March 2018
Copyright
©2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: May 11, 2017
Accepted: Sep 12, 2017
Published online: Jan 11, 2018
Published in print: Mar 1, 2018
Discussion open until: Jun 11, 2018
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