Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (Research Outputs)

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Expert systems : the fifth generation -more than a genealogical pursuit
(University of the Free State, 1995-12) Muller, Marius M.
This paper describes the nature of Expert Systems and outlines their possible use in the field of building economics. Their usefulness in terms of quantification of uncertainty is also examined. It was found that the benefits of developing Expert Systems are tremendous, but that the success of Expert Systems would be determined by their acceptance by the general public.
The role of education as an agent of change: a two fold effect
(1997) Muller, Marius M.; Hindle, R.D.
Several aspects of change to the procedures in the construction delivery process have been described in recent times, particularly those affecting building procurement systems. This paper describes the results of an investigation into one of the underlying causes of such change, particularly that which is affecting the traditional roles of the various parties that participate in the construction procurement process. It is proposed that one of the 'agents' of change is the product of tertiary education programmes that have been producing 'professional builders'. It describes how a new generation of builders, equipped with business skills and an inherent dissatisfaction with the traditional structure and procedures of the industry, are allowing leading construction companies to develop innovative construction marketing strategies and systems. These systems are based upon sound business practice, offer improved customer satisfaction and allow them to get closer to customers. In so doing they are taking over the roles of various built environment consultants who were principal agents and leaders in the traditional building procurement system.
Contractor's plant: whether to buy or to lease?
(University of the Free State, 1997) Muller, Marius M.
This article comments on the concepts of buying versus leasing in terms of decision-making theory regarding the procurement of contractor's plant. It was found that leasing offered the better option in the worked example presented herein, but that every plant buying or lease decision would have to be made individually on proven calculation and on merit. In hierdie ortikel word die bestoonde opsies behondel woorvoor die boukontrokteur te stoon kom wonneer hy toerusting oonskof. Die vroog is: moet hy huur of koop. Uit die voorbeeld wot hier oongehool word blyk dit dot huur 'n beter opsie bied. Dit is egter ook boie duidelik dot elke gevol meriete het en dus individueel bekyk moet word. Kostes moet teen mekoor opgeweeg word. verol met die kontrokteur se doelwit voor oe.
How Rapid Urbanisation, Neighbourhood Management Affects Living Conditions. A Survey of Agege Local Government Area, Lagos, Nigeria
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2014-11-23) Ijasan, K.C.; Ogunro, V. O.
This paper explores the issues around urbanisation, neighbourhood degeneration and its effects on the living condition on the residents of Agege area of Lagos, Nigeria. This paper traces the historical background of the area, examines the meaning of neighbourhood degeneration and explores factors responsible for neighbourhood degeneration. The paper adopts quantitative data collection strategies of investigation, and compares these with past literature on the issue. From the survey of 120 households in the area, the study realized street hooliganism; destitution, bad roads and considerable inequality in the distribution of wealth as the greatest problems in the area. It concluded on the need for holistic approach by government to fast-track housing conditions improvement in the entire areas. Moreover, the redevelopment of the area needs to be community-led participatory planning where all stakeholders harness ideas that can be used to improve the present situation of the area.
In vitro Evaluation of Porous borosilicate, borophosphate and phosphate Bioactive Glasses Scaffolds fabricated using Foaming Agent for Bone Regeneration
(Nature Research, 2018) Erasmus, E. P.; Sule, R.; Johnson, O. T.; Massera, J.; Sigalas, I.
In this work, glasses within the borosilicate borophosphate and phosphate family were sintered into 3D porous scaffolds using 60 and 70 vol. % NH4(HCO3) as a foaming agent. All scaffolds produced remained amorphous; apart from one third of the glasses which crystallized. All produced scaffolds had porosity >50% and interconnected pores in the range of 250–570 μm; as evidenced by μCT. The in-vitro dissolution of the scaffolds in SBF and changes in compression were assessed as a function of immersion time. The pH of the solution containing the borosilicate scaffolds increased due to the typical noncongruent dissolution of this glass family. Borophosphate and phosphate scaffolds induced a decrease in pH upon dissolution attributed to the congruent dissolution of those materials and the large release of phosphate within the media. As prepared, scaffolds showed compressive strength of 1.29 ± 0.21, 1.56 ± 0.63, 3.63 ± 0.69 MPa for the borosilicate, borophosphate and phosphate samples sintered with 60 vol. % NH4 (HCO3), respectively. Evidence of hydroxyapatite precipitation on the borosilicate glass scaffolds was shown by SEM/EDS, XRD and ICP-OES analysis. The borophosphate scaffolds remained stable upon dissolution. The phosphate scaffolds were fully crystallized, leading to very large release of phosphate in the media.
Architectural education @ different scales: Symposium 2016
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2018) Architectural Education Forum
Not available
Phase proportions, carbon equivalent, mechanical properties and their effect on material cost of railway axle steels
(Springer, 2018-04) Klenam, D.E.P.; Chown, L.H.; Papo, M.J.; Cornish, L.A.
Commuter trains with solid axle configuration are produced from medium carbon steel due to cost restrictions. High-speed trains have hollow axle configuration for reduced weight and are made from high strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels. The HSLA steels have higher amounts of C, Cr, Ni, Mo, V and Nb, and are more expensive than medium carbon steels. The effects of phase proportions, carbon equivalent (CE), yield strength and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) on material costs of existing railway axle steels were studied using Thermo-Calc. Medium carbon rail axle steels had higher Fe3C phase proportions than the HSLA steel rail axle grades. Higher affinity of Cr, Mo and V for C than Fe resulted in decreased cementite proportions. The HSLA steels had yield strengths above 370 MPa, and UTS above 750 MPa, with increased material cost above $3300 per ton. A scattered distribution was observed for the pearlite weight fraction and material costs, with most between $3200 and $3400. The yield and tensile strengths increased with increasing carbon equivalent and pearlite weight fraction. The data aided the selection and design of alloys with better mechanical and corrosion properties at reduced material cost.
The persistence and rise of master planning in urban Africa: transnational circuits and local ambitions
(Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group, 2022-03-27) Harrison, Philip; Croese, Sylvia
Master plans have long been criticized by critical planners who have argued in favour of more strategic, collaborative and relational forms of spatial planning that can more adequately respond to local needs and realities, especially in the context of the global South. Rather than critiquing master planning, this paper seeks to interrogate its recent rise in urban Africa. Building on a review of international planning trajectories, the paper seeks to challenge dominant narratives in the Western literature around the rise and decline of master planning. Planning experiences from across the African continent illustrate how master planning was a limited practice under colonialism and emerged more strongly in early post-colonial years, while persisting through a quiet period of planning and proliferating in recent times. By exploring the diversity in the influences and approaches to master planning for new and existing cities in Africa over time, the paper positions master planning as the product of a complex array of transnational circuits and multiple local actors and ambitions which intersect across different scales. The study of master planning should therefore be considered as an important entry point into understanding and rethinking the contemporary politics of urban planning, implementation, and development in Africa.
The transcalar politics of urban master planning: the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Africa
(Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group, 2022-09-22) Croese, Sylvia; Miyauchi, Yohei
This article sheds light on the growing, but understudied role of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in supporting the local production of master plans across the African continent as a tool for guiding long-term investments in urban development. To explore the multiple logics, actors and interests driving the conception, preparation and implementation of these plans, we approach urban master planning as a transcalar process, through which diverse investment, planning and governance arrangements are produced and mobilized in ways that transcend the city scale. We illuminate these dynamics by building on an analysis of the history of Japanese development cooperation and drawing on case studies of JICA master planning in Malawi, Ghana and Tanzania.
Investing in the Future: A Comparative Analysis of Green Technology Investments and Youth Unemployment in the US and South Africa
(Common Ground, 2024-05-14) Weaich, Malcolm; Weaich, Sherwyn; Simbanegavi, Prisca; Ndlovu, Pride
This study explores the nuanced relationship between sustainable investments, particularly from entities such as the United States (US), and their impact on unemployment trends in South Africa, contributing to discussions on sustainable development goals (SDGs). Utilizing a quantitative approach with data from sources such as the World Bank and Statistics SA, this study employs statistical and econometric methods to assess the socioeconomic consequences of international sustainability funding. The findings indicate a significant link between US sustainable investments and youth unemployment in South Africa, challenging and reinforcing existing research. It depicts that while foreign investments in green initiatives are crucial, they may inadvertently affect local employment negatively. This study recommends policy adjustments in both US and South African legislation to align foreign investments with SDGs, aiming to mitigate youth unemployment. This study underscores the importance of understanding the implications of international funding conditions on local economies, offering insights for policymakers and scholars to develop strategies that leverage sustainable investments for economic growth and employment opportunities. This study provides a fresh perspective on the dynamics between international investments and local unemployment, offering valuable insights for economic planning and policy formulation in South Africa and across other African nations.
Book of Abstracts WABER SuDBE Conference 2024, 30 – 31 July 2024 University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa
(WABER SuDBE Conference 2024, 2024-07) Laryea, Samuel; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Sarfo, Mensah; Hong, Liu; Runming, Yao
The technical presentations consist of seven keynote speeches and 130 paper presentations. The keynote speeches focus on an array of interesting topics that relate to the general conference theme of sustainable built environments. We have four keynote speeches relating to the theme of adaptability of the built environment to climate change and the sustainable development goals. The three other keynote speeches address matters of resilient and sustainable futures, the use of digital technologies to improve the sustainability of buildings, and artificial intelligence and carbon neutrality. The academic and industry leaders speaking on these topics are very experienced and their keynote presentations are expected to stimulate new ideas and discussion in the conference.
Proceedings of the WABER SuDBE 2024 Conference 30th – 31st July 2024 University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
(WABER SuDBE Conference 2024, 2024-07) Laryea, Samuel; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
The technical presentations consist of seven keynote speeches and 130 paper presentations. The keynote speeches focus on an array of interesting topics that relate to the general conference theme of sustainable built environments. We have four keynote speeches relating to the theme of adaptability of the built environment to climate change and the sustainable development goals. The three other keynote speeches address matters of resilient and sustainable futures, the use of digital technologies to improve the sustainability of buildings, and artificial intelligence and carbon neutrality. The academic and industry leaders speaking on these topics are very experienced and their keynote presentations are expected to stimulate new ideas and discussion in the conference. The accepted papers to be presented in the parallel sessions relate to eight themes namely: • Climate Responsive Built Environments • Air Quality and Healthy Building • Thermal Comfort and Intelligent Operation • Low Carbon Technology and Energy System • Sustainable Urban Renewal • Building Technology and Performance • Construction and Project Management • Real Estate and Property Management
Detecting and preventing unbalanced bidding in South African public sector construction
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Tilese, Neliswa; Makhaga, Thendo; Mphahlele, Matjelele; Zungu, Zamageda; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
Unbalanced bidding in public sector infrastructure projects is a key challenge, involving the manipulation of unit prices without adjusting the overall bid. Unbalanced bidding increases the client’s financial risks and the likelihood of project abandonment by the contractor. Existing literature provides guidelines for detecting and preventing bid price imbalances but inadequately addresses the practical implementation and efficacy of these approaches. This research aims to evaluate the practices for detecting and preventing unbalanced bidding in the South African public sector against existing formal models. This qualitative case study employs semi-structured interviews with quantity surveyors from public sector clients in Gauteng, South Africa. The purposive, non-probabilistic sampling targets professionals with relevant expertise. A thematic analysis of the interview data reveals insights into the awareness, consequences, and practices associated with unbalanced bidding in the South African public sector. The study findings highlight the need for strengthened governance and accountability, more robust strategies for detection of unbalanced bidding, and enhanced education of practitioners to promote fair competition and ethical practices in awarding projects.
An evaluation of the quantitative risk assessment simulation undertaken during the planning stage of mega-projects
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Zwane, Sibongile; Schutte, David; Maila, Sue; Jones, Razaak; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
This research examines how the absence of robust risk identification processes during the planning stage can significantly impact the quantitative risk assessment (QRA) outcomes and increase the likelihood of cost overruns in mega-projects in South Africa. By analysing specific mega-projects and their risk identification procedures, this study highlights the importance of a high-quality assessment of the QRA input stage in the context of these mega-projects. Through surveys and interviews with project managers and stakeholders, the study has provided deeper insights into the consequences of inadequate planning, such as project cost overruns and decreased project profitability. The research indicated that a robust risk identification process during the planning stage is pivotal in mitigating cost overruns in mega-projects in South Africa. Projects that prioritise structured methodologies involving all the relevant stakeholders and conduct comprehensive risk identification practices are better equipped to control project costs. The unanimous agreement on the significance of risk identification in cost overrun prevention emphasises its paramount importance. The findings will contribute to the risk management body of knowledge, offering valuable recommendations for improved risk identification and mitigation strategies to enhance project outcomes and positively impact project owners. Lastly, the paper sheds light on the nuanced landscape of risk identification, its impact on cost overruns, and the strategies for its improvement.
Fostering construction firm resilience through persuasive narratives of strategy: a conceptual framework
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Zungu, Zamageda; Laryea, Samuel; Nkado, Raymond; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
Amid macroeconomic, political, environmental and technological disruptions that have previously led to the failure of contracting firms, the construction industry faces the imperative to foster organisational resilience. While contemporary literature proposes diverse strategies to manage these disruptions effectively, it lacks clarity on how these strategies are conceptualised and practically mobilised within contracting organisations. However, a notable deficiency of the literature is that the manner in which these strategies are conceptualised and mobilised persuasively within contracting organisations remain unidentified. This study fills this void by conducting a comprehensive literature review, proposing a conceptual framework on the persuasive mobilisation of organisational resilience strategies within the construction sector. Through the lens of the strategy-as-practice perspective and drawing upon theoretical insights from narrative theory, this research intricately examines the interplay between contextual factors such as industry dynamics, organisational resilience strategies, narrative building blocks, strategic discourse and narrative persuasion. Specifically, this study underscores the significance of narrative infrastructure as the contextual canvas upon which strategic narratives are crafted and enacted. By elucidating the impact of narrative infrastructure on organisational actions and member perceptions, this framework not only advances theoretical understanding but also offers actionable insights for enhancing organisational resilience through strategic narratives. This research contributes to both academia and industry by shedding light on the pivotal role of narrative infrastructure in construction firms and providing pragmatic pathways for leveraging it effectively.
Key barriers to green building implementation in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Mompati, Lerato; Mandlate, Mike; Kabini, Karabo; Nomvalo, Usiphe; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
Due to climate change, South Africa is faced with economic and health challenges. Adopting green building technologies reduces the amount of energy usage, however the implementation of green building in South Africa has been slow. This research aimed to identify the barriers on the implementation of green building and the methods that can be adopted to enhance the growth of green building in South Africa. A qualitative research method was be adopted. The open-ended interviews were conducted with built environment professionals. The main barriers of green building implementation are: initial high cost, lack of awareness, lack of incentives, and resistance to change. Recommendations to enhance the growth of green building practices in South Africa include: updating building codes, expanding training programs, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, offering financial incentives, promoting the re-purposing of existing structures, and using performance-based contracts. The paper has highlighted the key barriers of green building implementation in South Africa and developed a database of the relevant studies which can further guide future researchers, stakeholders and policymakers in this area.
Barriers to digitalization of procurement – a review
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Ojo-Fafore, Elizabeth; Laryea, Samuel; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
The concept of digital technology is making waves in the construction industry in developed countries; however, it is not the same story in other nations as there are several barriers militating the progress of adoption of the new concept. This study aims to investigate the barriers militating digitalization of procurement in Construction, to proffer solutions. This study investigated possible barriers affecting the implementation of digitalization of procurement using a descriptive literature review. Several past works were reviewed to fill the gaps and apply new methods that will enable the digitalization of procurement. The study discovered several barriers restraining the digitalization of Procurement, but there are three common barriers to the literature reviewed; insecurity, cost, and Lack of skilled expertise. This industry will bring overall improvements in project time, quality, cost, and safety standards as well as client requirements and satisfaction. This research paper is of the view that digitalization will increase productivity and the competitive advantage in the Construction industry. In conclusion, there is a need to prioritize investment in digital tools and technology to have ease of adoption of procurement digitalization.
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.
Evaluating the new universities project outcomes using the PMBOK project performance domains
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Mosalaesi, Tsholofelo; Laryea, Samuel; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
The Project Management Institute (2021) PMBOK Guide seventh edition presents eight essential domains or activities that are crucial to ensure the success of a project. PMI (2021) defines these Project Performance Domains as a group of related activities that are critical for the effective delivery of project outcomes. The PMI’s new focus on performance and project outcomes marks a significant shift away from traditional project management tools and techniques. This paper uses the eight PPDs as a framework to determine the critical factors that enabled the success of the new universities project based on the eight domains. A completed project with comprehensive data was used for the analysis. Hence, data from the project close out report was analysed using the thematic analysis method to identify the key project performance practices that were formulated and implemented to successfully achieve the intended outcomes. The key success factors identified relate to the role of the client as a leader, stakeholder’s productive working relationship and the delivery of the project within 1% of the control budget. There may be a common assumption that all clients may employ project managers who may possess the skills to execute these critical functions successfully. However, this is not always the case on all projects, and there is also varying degrees of competency among project managers. Therefore, clients should ensure that those playing leadership roles in their projects are well equipped to perform these critical functions successfully as a condition to achieve better infrastructure project outcomes.
Using dynamic BIM to improve construction safety culture
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-07) Amiri, Mojtaba; Saghatforoush, Ehsan; Laryea, Samuel; Laryea, Samuel; Li, Baizhan; Essah, Emmanuel Adu; Mensah, Sarfo; Liu, Hong; Yao, Runming
Among the various studies that have addressed the application of BIM dynamics in domain of health and safety management, the lack of research regarding the impact of BIM dynamics on safety culture is clearly visible. These days, it is apparent that more and more construction technologies are currently being used for safety and health management. These technologies can be used in different construction applications to mitigate workplace hazards. Among these technologies, BIM and IoT has been shown to have significant potential in high-risk Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) industries. Several researchers have started to explore the potential synergy between BIM and IOT. Dynamic BIM presents an influential pattern for applications to improve construction safety management. The main purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the necessity of research on the use of dynamic BIM in improving construction safety culture. Hence, the literature review method was used to identify the domains in which dynamic BIM has been applied. Prominent application domains in which dynamic BIM has been applied are construction operation and monitoring, facility management (FM), construction logistic and management, health and safety (H&S) management. Results show that no research has addressed the impact of dynamic BIM on safety culture. Therefore, research related to dynamic BIM and its impact on construction safety culture is necessary.

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