Browsing by Author "Terblanche, Rolien"

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Exploring the challenges to drone-aided inspections in construction site management
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-09) Khorombi, Shadrack; Terblanche, Rolien
The construction industry, marked by its complexity and evolving standards, demands attention and commitment to quality. To guarantee that works are going according to plan, standards and regulations, in terms of quality and compliance, routine inspection strategies are implemented as an intrinsic part of the project management plan. Construction inspections are generally performed as a contractual obligation to enable an independent view of construction works and their progress for key stakeholders and the client. However, traditional inspection techniques are generally laborious and risky. Inspectors are often exposed to exterior elements; unfavourable conditions; intrinsic risks. Despite all of this, inspectors are still unable to obtain in-depth information on some of the surfaces due the inability to access surfaces or structures to optimal proximity. Drone technology has been proposed as an alternative method to traditional inspection for safer and more efficient inspections. This study endeavoured to explore key challenges to the implementation of drone technology for construction inspections. The methodological approach that the researcher adopted to achieve the research aim encompassed a qualitative method with document analysis, case study and interviews selected as data collection strategies. Techniques to gather empirical information required included observations and semi-structured interview questions. To present findings that are valid, reliable and generalisable, NVivo software was used as a data analysis tool where content analysis and thematic analysis were employed as data analysis strategies. The utilisation of qualitative, inductive case studies within an interpretivist paradigm was considered necessary to contextualise and deepen the understanding of the nature and occurrence of the challenges impeding key role players from full adoption of drone technology for construction site inspection processes. Key findings entail the lack of capital and resource allocation, concerns about transparency and contractual accountability, and the need for clear evidence of return on investment. Technical complexity, disruption to site activities, lack of interest from key stakeholders, capacity issues, and connectivity issues were also uncovered as challenges in the adoption of drone-aided inspections. Additionally, the findings encompassed strategies to overcome challenges impeding the optimal use of drones in construction projects. This study evaluates the current state and potential for drone technology adoption within the South African construction industry, highlighting practical challenges encountered during actual deployments. By proposing solutions such as streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing stakeholder collaboration, the research offers valuable pathways to optimise drone technology implementation during construction documentation and management.
The job satisfaction of black female quantity surveyors
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Punungwe, Fungai; Terblanche, Rolien; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
Black women face discrimination in the quantity surveying profession hence experiencing tension to balance their careers and life, which results in them not being satisfied with their jobs. The aim of this research is to assess the job satisfaction of black females in quantity surveying and examine if discrimination affects it. Data was collected through online interviews with Black females that are Quantity Surveyors. The results were analysed using thematic analysis to assess similarities in responses. Issues of harassment discrimination were significantly recognised through deep interviews with participants. The issue of job satisfaction of black female quantity surveyors is less explored in literature. The findings of this research can be used by bodies of knowledge and industry professional to improve measures on issues of inequality and alleviate any problems.
Understanding financial feasibility studies as an artefact in quantity surveying practice
(2022) Terblanche, Rolien
Quantity surveying, also known as cost engineering, is a profession that administers financial services to construction projects. Among other services, quantity surveyors prepare financial feasibility study reports (feasibilities) and communicate the detail of these to developers. A feasibility offers financial information of proposed construction project investments, which informs the decision-making regarding these investments. These reports are critical to the success of construction projects. Therefore, ensuring their accuracy and reliability is vital. Yet, in the industry, these feasibilities have been classified as largely neglected, faulty, inconsistent, confusing and problematic. As an artefact in the profession, the research aims to improve understanding around feasibilities, through exploring perspectives of both key stakeholders (quantity surveyors and developers) and by analysing the artefact itself. In this regard, the Actor-Network Theory (ANT) is a useful theoretical and analytical tool, specifically to identify the factors that form part of the feasibility process including the network showing how everything is connected. This holistic view of the feasibility process appears to be absent in literature and which would greatly help understand feasibilities. The concepts central to this study are communication, financial feasibility study reports, and ANT, within the quantity surveying profession. Empirical research data has been collected through semi-structured interviews with 23 quantity surveyors (the compilers and communicators) as well as 23 developers (the interpreters and decision-makers). Additionally, a document analysis was done with 18 collected feasibilities. Therefore, this study is carried out through mixedmethod research. This created a new approach and contribution to knowledge. An abductive approach has been adopted for this thesis, which addresses the problem from a pragmatist point of view. The research established that the quantity surveyors and developers have different uses for these feasibilities, apply different underlying meanings to them, as well as different definitions of a successful feasibility (among various other differences). Through the document analysis, it is clear that in practice, feasibilities are inadequate in terms of efficient document design and audience expectations. Additionally, factors (known as actants in ANT) that form part of the feasibility compilation and communication process were identified through the systematic literature review, interviews, and document analysis. These identified actants forms the feasibility actor-network. Data from these various sources were integrated, allowing a holistic view of the feasibility process to emerge. The network of the feasibility process is mapped and drawn from the findings, a framework is ultimately given. This framework contributes to a better understanding of feasibilities and could serve as a guide in practice. Subsequently, recommendations are made that could improve standardised feasibility processes in practice.