Sunday, March 31, 2019

BIM-Based 3D Reconstruction Technology

BIM-Based 3D Re kink Technology optimisation Model of BIM- base multidimensional re expression applied science and engineering science standard of optic learningKeywords Three-dimensional re twirl, opthalmic perceptual model, engineering optimization, modeling, analysis.Abstract.Vision-establish re wind is placid there is a big limitation. Through its research-based approach introduces the primary optic troika-dimensional re whirl techniques, advantages and disadvantages of various manners were compared, it is desirable in this area heap have a more comprehensive grasp, to further clarify the worry of hereafter research. In mold to improve the cogency of the traffic pattern and construction of bridge circuit engineering, building data modeling (BIM) is introduced into the bridge project in the past. By analyzing the characteristics of bridge stick out and construction and the problems proposed bridge determination and construction BIM-based optimization solutions , including explorative shape optimization, optimization of construction design, construction put to work optimization, optimization of the construction schedule and construction management optimization, combined with applicative engineering project the applicability and effect analysis. Case screening shows, BIM duo Project is applicable, chiffonier provide effective victuals for the bridge design and construction, thereby reducing rework and improve qualification. The understand may be massive or complex bridge engineering BIM improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the design and construction of reference.IntroductionThe relevant information and selective information building information model is based on building projects as the basis for the model, building model were established by the real information of the digital information simulation building has, it has the visibility, coordination, simulated sex, optimality and showing of volt characteristics. The BIM t echnology in the field of bridge engineering construction is shortly in the early tips, preliminary exploration in the design, construction, and post-operation maintenance and liven up of the faultless(prenominal) life cycle of how to mathematical function BIM technology to improve design efficiency, improved design quality, strengthen the construction organization and post trading operations management, specific system and the application of BIM technology can bring benefits, hoping to BIM in bridge engineering to ascend ideas.In recent years, domestic construction projects in the field of non-BIM is none otherwise than the hottest technology in the construction industry has achieved good results after the application, the state began to vigorously promote the line, highway, water system conservancy and hydropower industry application of BIM technology in fields such as engineering, and bridge engineering in the construction field and a whacking proportion, especially hig h-speed railway, mountain railway, roads, bridges, often accounting for a larger significance in bridge engineering applications BIM technology on the entire major project, the paper result design, three stages of construction, operation and maintenance of the last mentioned part of the project life cycle are the hard-nosed application of research needs and the effect of BIM technology.In recent years, should the needs of scotch development, large, extra large bridge project more and more, such as China, Hangzhou Bay twain, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which bridge design and construction of a higher requirement. Bridge construction project not only involves complex geographical environment, and involves a name of complex projects, the most typical is the Steel Bridge. Currently, the design of large bridge projects usually rely on the traditional monotone drawings and graphs to contemplate the design by closing animate in conflict construction planning is largely dep endent on the experience of project managers to develop and implement, and is alike a flattened drawings to show. However, since the bridge project their own characteristics, its design complexity, component many rely solely on the traditional mat drawings thorny to detect in advance or ensnare conflicts existing in the design these design problems usually can be found in the construction phase, thus affecting the construction schedule and cost, will excessively affect construction safety. At the same time, in order to re elaborate the problem of engineering design and construction, we had to deploy more staff, which is in like manner a significant increase in management costs. Therefore, to ensure the feasibleness of the bridge may be constructed of engineering design and construction programs for in force(p) implementation of the bridge project is very big.Preliminary design stage is change integrity into two stages of design and post-design, including pre-design project approval, feasibility studies and scheme equality and other parts, three-d solid model of the bridge by victimisation parametric modeling tools can be easily established harmonize to the actual need to adjust the size, and the actual effect of the bridge into the real-time dynamic display, to achieve WYSIWYG, can intuitively design concept, design cause directly model the three-dimensional opticalization of the project as a carrier to deliver policy-makers, which greatly facilitate the adjustment of the design, be rewrite in accordance with amendments and rendering, and cost control by adding information to forbid abreast of changes after the investment increases and decreases, so that the bridge-bridge quickly determine preliminary program is very convenient and efficient. Figure 1 is a railway bridge stayed Bridge main bridge model, we need to establish a special bridge structure fit to the characteristics of the family library for complex bridge structure using three-dim ensional expression of BIM model than the traditional monotonic drawings clearer and easier to understand.The Proposed MethodologyThree-dimensional modeling techniques.The use of modeling software for three-dimensional modeling is commonly used mode, however modeling the need to hap a lot of manpower and material resources are often prohibitive, reconstructive memory effect is often unsatisfactory. Vision-based reconstructive memory technique to solve this problem and provides a new way of thinking.Three-dimensional visual sensation-based three-dimensional reconstruction technology, which uses electronic computing machine slew methods of three-dimensional model reconstruction of the quarry, is the use of a digital photographic camera as the image sensor, the integrated use of image cognitive processing, visual reckoning technologies such as non-contact dimensional measurement, sustaining object using a computer program information. The advantage is that the shape of the object is not restricted to retrace faster, can achieve automatic or semi-automatic modeling, three-dimensional reconstruction is an important direction of development, can be widely used, including autonomous mobile zombie navigation systems, remote sensing and aero musculus quadriceps femoris, industrial fields of automation systems, etc., the stinting benefits generated by this technology is very impressive.As an important branch of computer vision technology, vision-based three-dimensional reconstruction of Marr visual theoretical framework is based on the formation of a variety of theoretical approaches. For example, according to the number of cameras can be divided into monocular vision method, binocular vision method, three monocular vision or monocular vision method according to different principles, vision-based method can be divided into regions, feature-based visual method , model-based and rule-based visual methods according to the obtained data the way, can be divide d into active and passive visual method visual method.Figure.1 Three dimensional reconstruction technique tally to research at home and abroad in recent years, were selected based on visual presentation of three-dimensional reconstruction of research and practical application of several methods and more comparative analysis, pointed out the main challenges for the future and the future direction of development. Depending on the number of cameras to use, this article will be divided into three-dimensional reconstruction method based on the visual method of monocular vision, binocular vision trinocular vision method and three methods were introduced, counseling on the monocular vision method.Monocular vision method.Monocular vision method is the use of a camera for three-dimensional reconstruction method. Images used can be a single point of view of single or sextuple images can also be a multi-view seven-fold images. The former is mainly characterized by a two-dimensional image de pth information deduced, these features include two-dimensional shading, caryopsis, focus, contour, etc., it is also referred to as X shape recovery method. This simple winding structure class methods, the use of single or small number of several images can be reconstructed three-dimensional object model less than that normally required conditions more idealistic, practical application is not very satisfactory, the effects of reconstruction in general. The latter by twinned different images of the same feature points matching using these coordinates in space constraint obtaining information in order to achieve a three-dimensional reconstruction. This method can be implemented in the reconstruction process of camera calibration, to meet the needs of large-scale reconstruction of three-dimensional scene, and in the case of resource-rich image reconstruction is better the downside is that a greater list of computing, a long time to rebuild. The following describes several major mon ocular vision method.Shading method.Shading method, that the chic of the shape recovery method (SFS). This approach by analyzing image brightness information, using reflected light model, restore the normal to the come out of three-dimensional reconstruction information. Horn in 1970 first proposed the concept SFS methods, and gives a non-linear relationship between the two-dimensional image showing the brightness of distributively pixel in the corresponding three-dimensional point of law to the reflectance of light and the direction of Partial Differential Equations , the brightness of the equation.However, this method is a SFS under-constrained problem and needs to solve other constraints. Therefore, the traditional method of SFS also based on three assumptions. The main advantage of the brightness of the method is that it can recover from a single image in a more precise three-dimensional model can be apply in addition to mirror the object almost all types of objects. Howeve r, the brightness of the reconstruction of relying solely on mathematical calculations, results are poor, but because of the excitement conditions more stringent requirements, the need to know the precise position and preference of the light source and other information, so that the brightness of the method is difficult to apply in the case of an outdoor scene lighting and other complex three-dimensional reconstruction on.Photometric stereo.Although the shading method to support the reconstruction of three-dimensional model from a single image, but less information is available in a single image, the actual reconstruction of the general effect. So Woodham of SFS method is proposed to improve the photometric stereo.Photometric stereo by a plurality of non-collinear light source to obtain dual images of the object, and then a different image brightness simultaneous equations, settlement the coat normal direction of the object, and ultimately restore the shape of the object. Tech nically, the use of two light sources can be obtained method object to the information, but the use of multiple sources of data redundancy can be unflinching by the shadows and specular reflections caused by such factors can not solve the problem, better robustness, reconstruction effect It can be improved, so the genuine method basically using a plurality of (four to six) three-dimensional reconstruction of the light source.Photometric stereo advantages and brightness of the same law, the use of multiple images at the same time avoids the problems of ill shading method, and the use of multiple light sources also increased constraints, to improve the accuracy and robustness of the method it the disadvantage is difficult to apply a mirror surface object and three-dimensional reconstruction of outdoor scenes and objects. caryopsis law.Humans can surface texture by projection on the retina perceive three-dimensional shape of the object, so the visual image information gradient textu re can be used as information for Shape and depth cues. Based on this theory, the analysis can be repeated by surface texture social unit image size, the shape, the recovery of the normal object, the depth information to obtain three-dimensional geometric model of the object, i.e., texture pro cross-file method for recovery.Texture is the basic theory of law For a smooth surface and having a repeating texture units covering the object of which, when projected on the two-dimensional image, texture unit on which will be deformed, this deformation is divided into projection distortion (projective distortion ) and perspective shrinkage. Projection distortion so the farther away from the image plane texture unit looks smaller foreshortening distortion and image plane makes an angle greater texture unit looks shorter. Because these two variants can be measured from the image, so it can be analyzed after deformation texture units, reverse strike the surface normal and depth of informatio n, three-dimensional reconstruction. indite method. This method of contour images of objects finished a plurality of angles to give a three-dimensional model of the object. Profile method can be divided based on voxel cone prime three methods based on visual and shell.Figure.2 Visual perception modelConclusionReconstruction of 3D Vision technology is dormant in the exploratory stage, the practical application of the various methods is still nearly distance away from a variety of application needs to be urgently met. Therefore, in the future for a long period of time, we also need to do more intensive research in this field. This reflect shows that, BIM can provide effective support for the bridge design and construction. This study was expected to provide reference for increasing large, complex bridge design and construction efficiency and effectiveness, as well as assist in the promotion and application of BIM in the field of civil engineering. I deal that with the continuous promotion of theory and technology of BIM, BIM applications in civil engineering will become increasingly widespread, so as to improve their quality, efficiency and management level. Safety-critical structural bridge engineering, maintenance and repair of the late, operations management, file management can take advantage of powerful information technology BIM, visualization capabilities to achieve.

Saturday, March 30, 2019

Benefits And Difficulties of Enterprise Wide Information System Implementation

Benefits And Difficulties of Enterprise Wide Information brass ImplementationIntroductionFaced with mounting global competition, companies get under mavins skin to reform how they coordinate activity across the follow so as to tap the nurture they deliver to customers and minimize woos. Competitive pressures have forced the companies to lead various performance intent lenss such as flexibility, reliability, responsiveness, customer satisfaction etc. ERP can be delineate as an commixd, multi-dimensional carcass for each functions, establish on a credit line model for prepargondness, control, and global (resource) optimisation of the whole supply chain, by using state if the art IS/IT technology that supplies value added services to every last(predicate) privileged and external parties (Jarrar, et al., 2000). Despite the fact ERP have been succeederfully found throughed in the past, careful cookery and execution becomes precise in-chief(postnominal) factors given their size and complexity. Much has been written about the supremacy of enterprise information ashess. But, this success depends on several critical success factors (CSF). The most third estate critical success factors that are identified in the academic literature are discussed below (Bhatti, 2005).1. stray directionProject Management involves the using up of skills and knowledge used to coordinate, schedule the defined activities so that the stated objectives of performance puts are achieved (Bhatti, 2005). A degree wise planning of the realise with effective project direction skills will definitely abet in overcoming such a situation (Soliman Youssef, 1998). 2. Business Process ReengineeringIt is defined as the altering the business litigate through redesigning so as to achieve dramatic improvements in cost, quality, service and speed (Bhatti, 2005). The success of ERP governing body writ of execution is characterised by changing the present business uncon scious processes in uniformity to the standards of best business process available (Gibson, et al., 1999). Examination of many business processes is considered as the key for the slaying of ERP system. 3. User training and education inadequacy of proper skillfully competent staff leads to the failure of many ERP instruction execution projects. The training program of ERP executing include aspects like the concepts behind ERP, the spacious range of features and implications of ERP system, and hands on training (Bhatti, 2005). Therefore training the employees plays a major role in fortunately implementing the ERP projects.4. Technological infrastructureERP death penalty involves a complex transition from legacy information systems to a common business process throughout the organization (Bhatti, 2005). Therefore choosing the right ERP big bucks ground on the size of the firm is very crucial. It is very important that the hardware descriptors that should be used to run the ER P system are aware by the vendor of ERP (Bhatti, 2005). This in turn is based on the plectron of the company.5. Change counsellingBhatti, (2005) emphasizes on this aspect and says that in order to implement ERP systems successfully, the way organizations do business will need to change and slipway people do their jobs will need to change as well. Change Management is the very essential for success of implementation project and it is necessary that it starts in the early stages and continues throughout the entire project liveliness cycle (Bhatti, 2005).6. Management of RiskHandling unexpected crises and ensuring that the project does not deviate from the sign plan is risk precaution (Bhatti, 2005). There is perpetually a possibility that ERP project skill deviate from the chief(prenominal) objective which can possibly lead to unexpected events. Therefore, an appropriate risk management strategy helps in considerably reducing the risks of project failure. 7. Top Management SupportManagement must be a part of ERP implementations and it is on-key mainly with software system projects and their success mainly depends on top management support Bhatti, 2005. Only the top management is equipped to act as the mediator amidst the imperatives of the technology and the imperatives of the business (Bhatti, 2005). Every step of the implementation process demands the top managements involvement to provide a direction for the project and to ensure that the project is successful which can be very dispute at clock times (Bhatti, 2005).8. Effective CommunicationCommunication, one of most essential and difficult tasks in any ERP implementation project provides the base for apprehension and sacramental manduction information between the members of the project group and helps in communication the goals in each implementation stage to the entire organisation (Bhatti, 2005). because continuous communication flow should be maintained throughout all the departments at a very early stage.9. Team work and leaseSince an ERP involves all the departments in an organisation, it is very essential for these departments to work together. An ERP implementation police squad comprises of, functional personnel and management, IT personnel and management, top management, IT consultants, ERP vendor , parent company employees, management consultants, hardware vendor (Bhatti, 2005). A mix of hired consultants with companys knowledgeable staff is essential in an ERP team so that the necessary technical skills necessitate for the design and implementation can be developed by the inner(a) staff (Bhatti, 2005).10. User InvolvementUser involvement is a very important aspect as the functions of an ERP system are intentional as per the users requirement. When a company decides to implement an ERP system, user involvement is required at the stage of definition of the companys ERP system needs and also during the implementation of the ERP system (Bhatti, 2005).1 1. Use of consultantsThere is a possibility that the company might lack the experts who have sound knowledge about the software. Hence the use of external consultants is very much required who can help the internal staff in installing the software. These consultants may be involved in different stages of the ERP project implementation (Bhatti, 2005). 12. Goals and ObjectivesThe goals, expectations, and deliverables should be clearly defined so to address the questions regarding the need for the implementation of the ERP system and the critical business the system would cater (Bhatti, 2005). In this essay a case study based approach is used in order to discuss the benefits that companies have reaped by the use of enterprise wide information systems and also the difficulties that may rig out in respect to the introduction and implementation of such systems. slickness study 1 discusses the benefits of the enterprise wide information system. At the same time Case study 2 throws a lig ht on the difficulties set about by the companies in respect to the introduction and implementation of such systems.Case study 1- Case study of Pratt and Whitney Canada (Tchokogue, A., Bareilb, C., Claude, R. D., 2005)Scope of the projectThe main objective of implementing an ERP system at PWC was to establish an ent erprise wide information system (TES) such that its customers have a greater transparency and agility (Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The management valued this information system in place as they were interested in increasing inventory turnover, reduce work in progress, improve on customer response time and increase inventory and operation cost visibility (Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Hence they decided that blackjack oak/R3 was optimal after considering the main enterprise systems such as Oracle, BAAN, SAP, etc. (Tchokogue, et al., 2005)Highlights of TES implementationThe project was jaggedly divided into 5 major phases over the duration of 32 months.Scoping and planningDe termining the level of previous reengineeringProcess redesignConfiguration exam and deliveryThe early stages (phases 1 and 2) of implementation took approximately 10 months. During this phase emphasis was on defining the scope of activities and planning their implementation ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). strategic objectives and requirements of PWC customers were interpreted into consideration while the existing processes were admission chargeed in order to steering on those which needed improvement in line with the targets set ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The tenderness stages (phase 3 and phase 4) which took 17 months of implementation mainly focussed on redesigning the processes where attempts to minimize re- engineering of processes were made ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Moreover during the phase 4 the configuration of the new system i.e. the main parameters of each SAP module and that the plectron of parameter options related to the new system was determined ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Care was taken to choose the right configuration based on the companies requirements. Risk management was effectively handled to prevent the uncertainties that prevail during the implementation stages to ensure that there was no deviation from the main goals and objectives. The top executives constantly monitored the progress of the implementation process and helped giving the project a proper direction. The project teams followed the Deloitte Touche Consulting Group- ICS FastTrack 4 SAP methodology ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) for the implementation of TES. In this methodology five key factors were considered throughout the project Project Management, Technology Architecture, Process and Systems Integrity, Change Management, and Knowledge move out ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005).The last stage (phase 5) included three integration test cycles An initial cycle related to master file data, a second to dormant data and a third to dynamic data. The successful test results were so f ormally accepted by the process managers ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005).An impressive project team of 345 employees from the most important departments of the company were divided into seven groups and were included in the project which ensured that contributions were made from all the departments directly affecting the new system ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). This enabled the project to have an effective knowledge transfer and expertise ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). close to 110 employees from the six most affected departments were trained to become internal trainers ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The involvement of both the internal and external consultants with effective communication between the departments and training processes proved extremely beneficial for the implementation process ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005)Results after(prenominal) its implementation the inventory turnover rate remained stable ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . An increase in the inventory costs was very visible ( Tcho kogue, et al., 2005) . The TES established an information key supporting the ongoing business processes and change ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . TES increased the productivity by 11% more than what was anticipated ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . It reduced the receivable days bang-up by 6% ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . 30-40% return on investment was achieved ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . The TES gave the organization access to real time information ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . This provided fruitful for inventory management and purchasing. The return start delays were reduced drastically ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . REASONS FOR ERP PROJECT FAILURES Poor technical methods are only one of the causes, and this cause is relatively minor in proportion to larger issues, such as failures in communications and ineffective lead ( Sumner, 1999) . Table 1 summarises the possible reasons for project failures. The Company Increasing the expertness was the main objective behind startin g the Delta III project which took 18 months for completion ( Scott, 1999) . Along with SAP/R3, FoxMeyer also purchased store-automation from a vendor called Pinnacle, and chose Andersen Consulting to integrate and implement the two systems ( Scott, 1999) . Delta III was at risk for several reasons The warehouse employees sensed that their jobs would be under threat if the warehouse automation software was integrated with SAP/R3 ( Scott, 1999) . This posed a huge threat for the implementation of SAP despite the support from top management as the warehouse employees opposed its implementation ( Scott, 1999) . The rise in the number of R/3 transactions to be processed after the start of the project put the scope of the project at great risk ( Scott, 1999) . This increased pith on the system is mainly because FoxMeyer signed a large contract to supply University Health System Consortium (UHC) ( Scott, 1999) . Another risk confront by FoxMeyer in the implementation process of SAP/ R3 is the lack of experient workers ( Scott, 1999) . This forced the management of FoxMeyer to rely on Andersen Consulting which proved to be a greater risk as the external consultants were also inexperienced ( Scott, 1999) . Lessons Achieved FoxMeyer failed to sens the risks involved in adopting SAP/R3 in the early stages of the implementation and end up sharing the risks with the external consultant Andersen Consulting ( Scott, 1999) . It ended up sharing the losses as they did not have any contract which strongly stated that only experienced consultants were t be used ( Scott, 1999). No attempts were made in training the in house workers which ended up in relying heavily on external consultants who hampered the knowledge transfer process within the company ( Scott, 1999). The management allowed the project to divert from its scope on a regular basis which in-turn affected the change management process at the later phases of implementation ( Scott, 1999). Discussion and Con clusion The two above mentioned case studies are representations of successful implementation of SAP R/3 ERP system in one company and a failure in implementation which caused huge losses in the other company. In the first case the success of the implementation process is mainly due to the constant and shared effort of all the parties involved with the project. Several factors such as their capacity to accept change, precise planning, adequate financial resources and time frames contributed to the organisational transformation of PWC.

Is Psychology Reductionist and Is This a Bad Thing?

Is Psychology reductionist and Is This a Bad Thing?Reductionism shadow be defined as a theory that reduces either complicated phenomena into a number of transparent psychological components or principles and hence identifies or excuses these phenomena merely in monetary value of those funda amiable parts (Sloane, 1945 Peele, 1981 Ausubel, 1982 Barendregt Rappard, 2004 Vul, 2011). For instance, in psychological studies reductionism tend to oversimplify each cognitive processes, benignant deportment or brotherly activity into more than basic component, and so disregard the complexities of human mind. The reductionist approach has guide to several vital discoveries in scientific studies as they compromise simpler score for a complicated phenomenon and, the effects of one variable heap be solely isolated and tested, in order to discover causative relationships. For example, in order to develop an concord of song the nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal syst em postulate to be studied (Minton, 1994). Rose (1997, as cited in Nagel, 1998) introduced a few(prenominal) types of reductionism philosophical reductionism, which implies that if all science is unitary psychological science should easily meld into other sciences, thencomplex psychological demeanor needs to be broken bug out to forcible laws (Jessor, 1958). Methodological reductionism for instance, in order to find out approximately the temper of retrospect and specifically deduce something related to the structure of long-run keeping, (Hulme, Maughan Brown, 1991) conducted a study based in a laboratory, giving participants a list of familiar and unfamiliar words to remember.Based on the findings a stimulus oecumenicisation of how human long- bound memory functions whitethorn be made. However, these kinds of researches in psychology are at the reductionist level.Currently the type of reductionism that is of most spare-time activity in psychology claims that all con ducts should be reducible to biology (Oppenheim Putnam, 1958 Peele, 1981), message that most mental phenomena (consciousness) are equated with biological phenomena. In this essay the liking of reductionism get out be analysed through psychological research and a finish can then be made based upon conclusion to nail down whether psychology is a reductionist or not.Reductionism tends to be applicable when let offing behaviour in basic terms, with the more foc apply sciences at the top and general sciences at the bottom. Behaviours can be explained at different levels, ranging from molecular (physics), followed by the intracellular (biochemistry) then parts of individuals (physiology), pecks behaviour (psychology) and finally the behaviour of groups (sociology).For instance, mental disorders may be explained by neurotransmitters (physiology) or in terms of the mind (unconsciousness) and in terms of social systems (dysfunctional family). However, when explaining behaviour all l evel of accountings needs to be fixn into sexual conquest. For example, by taking physiological explanation into account schizophrenic psychosis is compositors cased by unembellished levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine located in the mentality (Howes Kapur, 2009 Jentsch, Robert Roth, 1991). The certify for the involvement of dopamine comes from drugs, much(prenominal) as amphetamines (when taken by people without psychiatric disorder) cause behaviour that resembles the positive symptoms of schizophrenia (Angrist, Rotrosen Gershon, 1980). The drug has the effect of increasing dopamine levels in the mind-set. However, one problem with this dopamine hypothesis is that not every patient with schizophrenia who takes drugs to reduce dopamine levels has their symptoms minify, and to a fault everyone who takes drugs that increases levels of dopamine may not show the symptoms. This clearly shows that individual differences are difficult to explain by reductionists, mainly because despite being in its smallest constituent, behaviour is oversimplified. This declare oneselfs that dopamine cannot be the only explanation, as every human being is uniqueand consequently all respond differently. So, reductionist explanation is limiting, because the same symptoms or behaviour in two persons may be caused by different factors, such as environmental or biological factors (Walker Diforio, 1997).However, The best solution is in all likelihood the diathesis stress pretence, which combines all approaches together. The diathesis-stress model indicates that physiological explanations tend to offer a predisposition to mental ailmentes. Also, an alternative explanation is that a stressful sprightliness regular(a)t causes the onset of mental disorders (Walker Diforio, 1997 Eberhart, Auerbach, Bigda-Peyton Abela, 2011). The individual may assimilate a predisposition to the disorder exclusively only people who suck a go at it stressors will develop the disor der. The diathesis stress model can be applied to the cognitive and biological explanation, suggesting that people may lose photo for mental illness but the disorder only manifests itself when triggered by life events or when a person misinterprets other peoples behaviour.Although physiological explanation can be seen as reductionist and simplistic, they do offer explanations of mental disorders behaviour. concord what is going on in abnormal behaviour by relating it to tidy behavioural processes is undeniably reductionist, but sometimes reductionism helps psychology to devise handling strategies for mental illnesses. They are not intended to provide exhaustive explanations for wherefore these symptoms exist. They do however offer some kind of insight into what it efficacy feel like to experience such disorders. For instance, offering anti-depressants to treat patients hapless from depression may seem like an optimum solution but the underlying cause may be disregarded, such a s unconscious mental process or personal experience. However, physiological reductionism attempts to consider a more humane tactic to treat certain mental illness, as the individual with mental illness are not to be fiendish and the patients exact essentially no control or choice in the matter. Nevertheless, most of these theories are merely reductionist-oriented explanation.In addition, in that respect is some evidence proposing that mental disorders are inherited or at least there is a significant genetic component (Petronis, 2004). Family, twin and adaption studies feed been used to investigate this genetic explanation. If the cause of mental disorders were entirely genetic, then the concordance rate among MZ twins would be 100% (Evans Martin, 2008). However, Evans Martin (2008) research have not put together100% concordance so it clearly shows that other factors must be entangled in the onset of certain disorders. It is impossible to isolate the effects of genes (nature ) from rise up (shared environment) when studying behaviour. Therefore, studies that indicate the concordance rates for disorders must be hardened with caution, to avoid impractical cause and effect links.Furthermore, Bandura (1965) claimed that social learning has an potent role on childrens warring behaviour. However, biological explanations of aggression have stressed factors that have nothing to do with social learning butmore to do with biological influences, such as the role of hormonal mechanisms. For example, high levels of testosterone have shown to be associatedwith aggressive behaviour (Archer, 1991). These findings emphasise that aggressive behaviour cannot be purely base on a learned behaviour. Also, this explanation neglects to take into account various approaches to explain certain behaviour and therefore being a reductionist.Additionally, there are significant methodological problems in these observational researches, as research usually does not equate to real world, which could then precede to falsification of the findings. Also, using the social learning theory (Bandura, 1965) to isolatecertain behaviour into various chunks may not provide a full understanding of how behaviour functions as a whole. This suggests that reductionism may be appropriate for simpler systems quite than a complex human behaviour.However, Morley and Hall (2003) argue that genetic vulnerability associated with anti-social behaviour only inadequately predict an increased risk of aggressive behaviour in an individual than the general population.Other factors (such as environmental influences) baffle whether aggressive behaviour is displayed in a especial(a) situation. Similarly, (Hines and Malley-Morrison, 2005)claim that some people are more likely to commit anti-social behaviour as a result of their genotype. Alternatively, suggesting that genetic influences are probabilistic rather than reductionist. Twin researchers likewise assume that MZ and DZ twins rai sed in the same environment experience the same experience with their co-twin, therefore any greater similarity amongst MZ twins must be due to the greater genetic similarity. However, Evans and Martin (2003) suggest that parents, teachers and peers treat MZ twins more similarity than DZ twins therefore greater similarity in terms of aggressive behaviour may also be due to the greater similarity of their experiences. In this respect, various approaches needs to be considered to explain behaviour, as using simple explanations may be inappropriate.Having said that reductionism can be appropriate for some levels of explanation, it makes more intellect to use cellular biology to explain living cells, rather than psychology.But if all animals and humans are made of atoms, then their behaviours can be reduced to a physical level. Researches believe that the two types of units including the physical brain and physical mind interact with each other (Pandya, 2011). Also suggesting that the mind can have an influence on physiology. For example, Martin, Martin, Rai, Richardson and Royall (2001) found that same level of serotonin was altered in the brain of depressed patients who have psychotherapy and those who received drug as a treatment.On the other hand the multi-store model (MSM), which was proposed by Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) uses mechanistic, computer analogies to explain cognitive processes such as attention, memory and problem solving. This model is using reductionism to explain how memory functions, as the brain is equated with acomputer system. This model plays a restricted role in understanding evolution or memory, as it describes memory at a reductionist-level. Also, research associated with memory often involves memorising a list of nonsense words to measure the capacity or the while of long-term and short-term memory, and the findings often offer an absurd explanation of memory in general (Hulme Maughan Brown, 1991).Researches have found extra evidence for long-term memory. The finding to such studies should not be generalised, as the key variable is oversimplified.However, some research have found evidence for long-term memory, Bahrick, Bahrick and Wittlinger (1975) investigated recall of high school yearbooks photos to find out the duration of long term memory, they found 90% accuracy of long term memory, mainly because the information was meaningful to the participants.In addition, reductionism overlooked the notion of emotion, generally because it is difficult to determinehow someone is feelingbylooking at neurotransmitters located in the brain. Nevertheless, studies have found that certain hormones such as noradrenalineleads to better memory performance in an individual (Stegeren, 2008). This yield to the conclusion that possibly there may be an association between biology and behaviour (emotion). However, while it is possibleto observe how human brain responds to certain sounds by looking into a scanner, the scan ner cannot break dance how the person feels when they hear a particular sound. For instance, (Schmidt and Trainor, 2001) found that certain prick of the brain associated with happiness is stimulated while listening to a particular sound, however this does not mean that the person is happy. In this respect, using reductionism may not be an unacceptable way of assessing feelings.There are galore(postnominal) arguments against the idea of reductionism in psychological studies. A prime example of these disagreements involves the discussions of nature versus nurture that whether environmental factors have any involvement in do behaviour. Ecological influences can shape behaviour throughout the lifespan even if that person was born with certain genes associated with mental disorders environmental factors such as family and society play a major role in formation any tho behaviour. The diathesis stress models places an importance on the interaction between the person and their environ ment, suggesting the biological predisposition to any mental disorders is dormant until stress in the environment makes it active.The diathesis stress model brings together unrelated causal factors into a unified model. The flexibility of the model is that individual differences can account for various contributing factors of mental illnesses (Patten, 2013 Sloane, 1945). This means that the model can explain most instances of mental disorders. The source of stress could be genetic, or perhaps disrupted and inconsistent parenting and communication within family. All the factors above have been suggested as having a causal role in the development of mental disorders, although none of them alone is sufficient to cause the disorder. For example, it seems as though schizophrenia is a complex disorder reflecting problems with genetics and birth, as well as with more general problems living in a busy society. However, such factors do feed into the diathesis stress model described. Alongsid e with the biological explanation schizophrenia should also be treated at the level of experience.However, further research is sorely needed in the area of reductionism in psychology, as most of these explanations are inconsistentbecause in psychology human behaviour cannot be explained entirely in terms of one single factor, such as physiology, genetic, culture, ethnicity or cultural factors. Therefore, the all these factors should not be disregarded as most people suffering from mental illness may have distinct personality traits, specific genotype or abnormal brain structure, which makes them more vulnerable to develop certain type of mental disorder.Furthermore, reductionist theory fails to explain realism in psychology, as it only count a series of components rather than the whole, which can lead to inadequate explanations of the reality. peradventure acknowledging all phases of explanations such as physiological, ecological or emotional could lead to a better understanding o f the reality.Finally, the reductionist approach has been criticised by many, heretofore the fact that studying the brain allows a deeper understanding to the cause of most behaviour cannot be ignored.Word count 2200

Friday, March 29, 2019

Project Planning And Challenges Facing Planners Construction Essay

Project formulation And Ch rough(prenominal)enges Facing Planners bend Es ordinateThis chapter de place review the literature which has been riding habit for this dissertation. A figure of speech of important aspects leave be covered, including an overview of verbalism planning as well up as determining what ch every last(predicate)enges atomic number 18 face up on a unremarkable basis by eddy devisers. This chapter ordain overly review look for relating to Planning techniques utilise and softw ar packages acquirable inwardly the pull manufacture.2.2 reflexion Project PlanningProject vigilance stick out be seen as the application of tools and techniques utilised to guide the use of resources towards achieving an intricate occupation inside the constraints of cartridge holder, soulfulnessify and woodland. From conception to boundary, a mixture of these tools techniques is necessary to fit the task environment and realise life cycle.(Oisen 1970).Th e British Standard for see to it circumspection (BS6079 1996) be protrusion management as, The preparation, monitoring and restrain of each(prenominal) aspects of a look and the motivation of all those involved in it to achieve the sick targets on time and to the specified apostrophize, quality and performance. The UK association of Project Management (APM) ease up produced a UK body of knowledge UK (BoK) which also provides a explanation for project management as The training, organisation, monitoring and authorisation of all aspects of a project and the motivation of all involved to achieve the project objectives safely and inwardly agreed time, cost and performance criteria. The project manager is the star layover of responsibility for achieving this.Project Management as we know straight off has evolved in order to plan, coordinate and control the complex and diverse activities of sweet(a) industrial, commercial and management change projects. (Lock 2007)To allow for effectual home break down and control of projects, a selectment for taxonomical and logical modes should be applied along with proven techniques, thereof ensuring a successful project outcome for all concerned parties, positionly the client. Without formulation it is severe to envisage the successful result of any project or the stiff control of time, money or resources. Planning is also essential in order to deal with br forethought risks and devise safe ricking method actings. (Cooke 2008)Project Planning is defined as the establishment of a launch of directions in sufficient detail to control the project group exactly what essential(prenominal) be do, when it essential be done and what resources to use in order to produce the deliverables of the project successfully. (Zwikael 2008). formula readiness is an essential and challenging legal action in the management and executing of social structure projects. It occupies the choice of technology, t he description of lap tasks, the estimation of the necessary resources and continuances for separate tasks, and the identification of any interactions among the distinct last tasks. Hendrickson (1998) believes a good wrench plan is the basis for developing the budget and the inscription for buy the farm. It is so commons to adopt a conspicuous importance on either cost control or on schedule control as illustrated in skeleton 2.1.Fig 2.1 (Hendrickson. 1998)Walker (2007) considers that by having a project schedule to work to and sticking to it, you will well be on your manner to delivering successful projects. This would be dependant on effective communication and expertness at all stages of the project and with an aim to reducing risk, time and cost.2.3 The wrench Planner saying project provision is receiving growing fear as the limitations of formal deterministic planning are becoming much widely recognised. (Winch, Kelsey 2004). There is growing concern over the failure of bring inion planning to achieve its goals in spite of the considerable resources allocated to it. Deficient planning techniques are commonly blamed for this state. (Laufer, Tucker, 1987)There has been considerable debate over the bear decade or so on the effectiveness of edifice project planning. However, there is remarkably little research into what grammatical structure project planners truly do.Laufer and Tucker provide a critique of construction planning.They protest that-the planning and evaluation of planning processes are non-existentthere is over-emphasis on critical passage methodsplanners lack construction have sexplanners have poor in set upion fabrication methodsplanning is control-oriented instead of action-orientedPlans are been poorly presented with overly-complex education.In a sequent paper (1994) Laufer and his colleagues look at the definition and allocation of planning work. They base that there was no clear system at work and planning was done in a multiplicity of ways. They call for the process to be properly co-ordinated by a single unmarried who will witness the planning process and improve communication. Winch and Kelsey (2005) believe the specialist planner has the time to do the work but uncompleted practical knowledge. The form manager has the practical knowledge but does not have the quality time to carry out the task. The specialist planner has better strategical decision-making skills than the short-term decision-making focus of the line manager. They then go on to say Line managers see the delegation of key decision-making to an separate(a) as a threat to their position.These problems are substantiate in Laufer (1992) wider project management pack and empennage result inThe planner preparing a plan which has incomplete information and in-adequate decision making authority.The line manager treating such plans as merely an irrelevant forecast prepared by another.Allen Smallwood (2008) believe Cons truction planners and the role they perform are little understood both within the construction industry and the wider environment where construction has a daily impact.Planning occupies a central position in the functions of the manager. His responsibilities whitethorn vary with organisational school of thought and contingency but planning invariably remains an essential atom of his duties. (Steiner, 1979). Much inquiry and Development sudor has been made during the last threesome decades but progress with techniques has not removed the dissatisfaction with the application and results of construction planning (Choudhury 1981, Mason 1984, Morton 1983).Effective construction planning demands that it is carried out by qualified and go through personnel. While the reckoner must remain in electric charge or pricing the work, intimately pledges, today, are too complex for the estimator to handle the technical content of pre- loving appraisal. It is here that the construction p lanner has a major function.2.4 Planning Techniques closely planning techniques aim to express the work to be done, to a time-scale some also overwhelm resources, and perhaps cost and value. In simple monetary value, they intend to help control time and cost. The other major factor in project control, quality, is controlled by its own family of control techniques and quality is connect to time and cost through the skill and discretion of the project management team.Neale (1989) believes the major components of planning techniques areActivities literally, world busy, outlay energy, consuming resources, taking time in construction planning, this stand fors a job to be done for example preparing a drawing, an order to be places, a hole to be dug, bricks to be laid in a wall, a flow of irrigate to be diverted.Activity durations the time necessitate for the completion of each activityProject time-scale the time structure of the project it is usual to defend each week in the pro ject a human action (this makes count easier), and these then have to be related to calendar dates, holidays, etc.Event an occurrence at a specific point in time for example, the granting of planning consent, of the start or end of a traffic diversion.Work method the plan must be evince in some logical way, indicating the range of operations, and which activities and events are interrelated this may be implicit (as with taphouse charts) or exlicit (in network epitome, where work method is usually called logic.)Resources often called the four Ms (men, machines, materials and money) but bed include overheads (for example, land site accommodation), and even such essentials as managerial skill.Costs what the work has or will cost, often derived directly from the unit cost of the soul resources.Value what has or can be earned by defrayal for work done derived from the bill of quantities, the estimate or an internal budget. The calculation of value-to-date can be used as an ove rall measure of project progress.The following four techniques are often used in construction planningBar charts, engagement abridgment,Line-of- quietus one-dimensional syllabuss.2.4.1 The bar chart/ Gantt chartDrafting of a bar chart is popular because it produces results which are diffused to understand and not too searching of the planner. Its use is moderate to planning straightforward work with simple proportionships between the activities. This vivid technique windlessness forms the buildation for or so resource scheduling. Its major drawback is that even minor deviations from it require extensive redrafting as a result making it more troublesome to having to hand a contemporaneous bar chart that is a secure indicator of future events.The main features of the bar chart are as followsThe activities are listed on the vertical axisTime is shown on the level axis. This may be an appropriate time unit, such as months or days.Each bar is divided horizontally into two, w ith the top half representing when the activity is planned to deliver place, and the bottom shared in, as proportions of the activity are completed.A vertical movable marker line indicates the current time, thus enabling the observer to note if any activities are behind architectural plan, and to what extent. touch on to Figure 2.2 for additional information.Figure 2.2 Typical bar chartThe format of the bar chart presumes that the end user (client) can involve the alike judgment that was in the mind of the planner when he was compiling it. In highly repetitive or simple work it can be implied that the users will better understand the thought process of the planner. However as project complexity increases the users ability to monitor the project in relation to the create mentally is reduced unless it is understoodWhat work is important to progress?Of the activities shortly behind programme what, if any, effect do they have on overall progress?On the contrary, if most of the actu al work is ahead of programme, does this mean that the current prediction is that the project will be complete in advance of the targeted completion date? The answer is definitely not an self-acting yes.To provide an informed response, an understanding of the births between programme activities is crucial. Neale (1989) consider these deceptively simple questions contradict issues which are at the heart of many construction dis stickes, namely considerations for extension of time.2.4.2 Network AnalysisUnlike a bar chart, activities are not shown on an axis of time. What the network portrays is the logical relationship between activities. Network digest is a powerful, logical and analytical technique. It is most effective when used for complicated projects, especially those with external constraints and complex interrelationships.The technique is establish on drawing the logical relationships between construction operations, and from an analysis of the relative durations, establish ing which operations have the most crucial effect on the project duration. It can be drawn in a number of ways, the most well-known in the UK existence the arrow diagram.Figure 2.3 Network diagramThe technique is sometimes known as the critical manner method (CPM), and critical racecourse analysis (CPA). A version which incorporates a statistical method for calculating the probability that a project will be completed on a specific date is called the programme evaluation and review technique. (PERT)The identification of a critical path focuses the attention of the various(prenominal)s managing the project and highlights to clients and their advisors the tasks that require to be curiously well managed with regard to time. The duration of critical path represents the shortest duration in which the project can be completed.Delays to activities on the critical path transmit directly through to belong the project completion date. This provides advanced warning of the pending delay to completion and enables the twingeor (or employer) to invoke recovery action at a helpful point in time rather than waiting until it is manifestly probable that the completion date is threatened. If the employer or his Architect/Engineer (A/E) instructs additional work which affects the activities on the critical path then the contractor has grounds for a claim for an extension of time. The term critical path is widely used in the construction industry what is not fully appreciated is how substantially the critical path can change.Figure 2.4 Network diagram wake critical pathNetwork analysis has a good and comprehensive logical basis, lends itself easily to computer processing, and can be used as an effective control tool. These exceptional characteristics are also known to be its principal weakness as it is easier for the planner to be drawn into a level of planning and analysis that is much to detailed and advanced for most construction projects.2.4.3 Line of BalanceLine of balance is a specialize technique used for repetitive work. It derived from the manufacturing industry and has been found to be effective in planning work truly repetitive. Examples of success applications include planning the construction of identical floors in high rise construction, and extended lodgment developments.Line of balance has been found to be difficult to use on projects which have a high demand for trades or operations to construct each identical unit. The problems arise not from the technique itself, but from the difficult of showing all the information on one chart, particularly when victimization the technique to monitor progress. When used to plan, it can be an excellent nitty-gritty of relating resources, activity durations and the general pace of work on site. Neale (1989).Illingworth (1993) considers the line of balance approach has largely fallen out of use in todays industry due to the fact it was objected primarily for housing and did not promptly provide clear visual appreciation of the situation at a glance.Figure 2.5 -Typical line of balance diagram2.4.4 Linear design (or time-chainage chart)Linear programming is a specialised technique for linear work. This is a canonical tool of UK road contractors. Other successful applications include the construction of a large canal in a developing country, and it is especially useful in tunnelling. Illingworth (1993).Similar to line of balance, this is a simple two- dimensional graphical technique and can show intelligibly only a limited amount of information and limited degree of complexity.Figure 2.6 Linear course of instruction (Neale 1989)2.5 Which technique?The encounterd planner in construction removes to be aware of the techniques available, together with the value of each, both in the planning analysis role and how then can be applied to give effective control and communication to management on site. Illingworth (1993).Like any other professional, the planner has to select the right tool for the job. To make the correct decision, it is therefore a requirement to examine what is wanted in a particular situation programme. Illingworth (1993) believes the main points of this choice are as followsDoes the method aid initial analysis of the situation and especially in establishing the best sequence of events?Are deficiencies in progress shown up as the work event?Can visiting management obtain and immediate view of the contract situation on arrival on site?With the preponderance of subcontractors on site today, does the programme method give assistance in change flow control?According to Illingworth, from these questions it is unlikely to be the answer to all desires. Therefore it is said to be better to consider the situation in two stages amicable planning on the one hand and the functional planning after the contract has been won, on the other.2.6 Planning PracticeIn order to explore go on the reality of construction project planning semi- structured interviews were conducted between July and December 2000 with 18 experienced planners from five leading UK construction firms. Most of the planners interviewed were currently involved in planning at the tender stage including assembly and presentation of the tender documentation. About half of those were also involved at the tender/ pre-construction stage. Only a a couple of(prenominal) were further involved during the site works. (Refer to figure 2.7). Generally, although a number of the interviewed planners had on-site experience the typical pattern is that a planner works either at the pre-tender, pre-execution stages or on site but not simultaneously. The exceptions tend to be where planners work for some time on a single large project. In such cases it may make sense (from the employers point of view) for their work to carry on to the execution stage.Figure 2.7 Planning Practice, G.M Winch and J.Kelsey2.7 programme Considerations at the Tender StageUpon receipt of tender documentation, the contractor will appoint human resources tasked with compiling a tender submission based upon the tender enquiry. One of the main individual in this team is the person sexual conquestable for producing the tender programme, the construction planner. Whether or not the contractual terms require a programme to be produced or not should be irrelevant at this stage. The tender programme is an important document produced by the contractor which is used for measuring many risk and cost related issues. In particular, the assessment of cost of the contractors time related preliminary items as drawn off the content of the tender programme. For example, the anticipated on site durations for different members of staff, periods of scaffold hire and duration for site accommodation are items that cannot be priced by the estimator without reference to the tender programme.When compiling the tender programme, the construction planner must incorporate the information suppl ied with the enquiry noting any specified constraints contained in either the contract bills, specification or drawings. infringe between documents often exists and a view had to be taken on how to proceed. Clarification may be sought from the employer or his agents, assumptions made and declared along with the submission or the conflict may be ignore and the information that best suits the contractor is assumed without qualification or statement.It is sure in the industry that many bids are won or disjointed on the programme duration alone. This happens frequently where a bill of quantities is being priced and the experienced contractors tend towards equal prime cost for similar items.On completion of reviewing tender documents, drawings, specification and bills, which may be typically done over a period of one or two weeks, the construction planner will establish the work scope which will be addressed in the creation of a tender programme. The main objective is to be aware of the specified period for construction. Additional to the completed programme should be a schedule of resources which corresponds with the programme and a series of method statements signifying construction techniques and equipment to be employed in carrying out the work.2.8 Programming on SiteWhen the contract is won, the site planning is equally important. It is usually at this point that the site manager will have his first accident to examine the methods on which the job was priced. What is important to recognise, at this point, is that planning must be seen as an addition to management. Thus the site manager must have the right to question the planning methods on which the contract was priced. To do so, site managers require the technical expertise to assess what has been put forward. In so doing, the manager concerned must, for his part, accept that if he wants to change the method from that in the priced tender, he must demonstrate that his alternative is obviously cheaper, or at least as cheap, as that priced in the tender submission.When final examination agreement has been reached, the planning function can be established on site and develop the final method to be adopted. This, in turn, will lead to the contract master programme and such subsidiary programmes as may be necessary.On completion of all methods being confirmed the construction planner continues to have a significant role on site. First, in developing control and short-term programmes for all organisations contributing to the contract under the main or managing contractor. Second, the construction planners cherished knowledge of how the work was originally planned makes him uniquely placed to examine the potential consequences of alterations to what has to be built. In this area he is a valuable source of information to the site quantity surveyor when assessing where possible contractural claims may arise.Today, with the ever increasing use of trade sub-contractors as well as specialis t service contractors, the experienced construction planner has the option of either seeing the role as satisfying its own right, or as an essential ingredient of experience for becoming a successful site manager. Illingworth (1993).2.9 Purpose of a ProgrammeThe values applicable to the mechanics of construction planning are similar whether you are a main contractor submitting a quotation to an employer, a sub-contractor quoting to the main contractor, or even a construction manager providing programme assist to an employer. Common principles apply when compiling a construction programme, that of organized analysis.The contractors construction programme is an important common reference. It shows how the planner they have see the contract documents and other information from which the statement of intent for construction is issued. As the key programme for the construction work, its content is of the utmost significance to all parties charged with handing over to the employer a bui lding fit for purpose within the contract time stated.A well prepared programme is bouncy to every construction project. Many activities have to be cautiously defined and given a time scale, and it necessary not only to call together and list the information but also to display it visually in terms of the contracts objectives and the calendar. The operative sequences and the relationships between individual activities must be clearly conveyed in this visual presentation. The Chartered shew of Building (2001).They consider the construction programme to be a statement of intended actions, which when properly used provides management with its plan of campaign. It should communicate with ease, providing the common reference for the timing of all activities related to the project.2.10 Construction Planning SoftwareAn expert planner set about with the task of producing and analysing a network for a project containing only few activities will undoubtedly produce the fastest results by drawing a freehand arrow diagram and analysing it mentally. Lock (2007). He believes it is likely to take longer when using a computer because of the formalities needed to set up the new project files in the system and enter the data.David Arditi and Ann Rackas compiled a short report in May of 1986 with an aim in ascertaining the need for computer software to assist is construction planning and scheduling. This report concluded, the individual needs of a given construction company are the capital reasons for choosing a particular software package. For example, one of the participating general contractors basic requirements was to have a 40-character activity description field a particularly individual need.They continued to suggest if a program is to survive the needful shakeout that occurs after the initial development and interest have peaked it must offer the features and capacities that are required by the user. In addition, every effort should be made to make computers less mysterious and confusing as they will be dealing with the construction market.Today there are many planning software packages available to the construction industry. Asta Powerproject, Microsoft Project, Primavera, PERT outgo to name a few. Each package is commonly suited to the individual needs of the planner. Some programs present a blank Gantt chart on the screen as soon as they are booted up, and it is apparent to the user that task data can be typed in immediately.Most programs allow the user/ planner to establish project durations, critical path network, allocate resources, assign costs to tasks and monitor progress throughout the project. As a result, most construction planning professionals use such packages daily.2.11 Construction Planning ChallengesLock (2007) considers anyone planning a project of significant sizing will soon find out that there are a number of factors, both inside and right(prenominal) the project organisation that can have an effect on the planners i ntentions. These are as follows2.11.1 External FactorsFigure 2.8 External Factors (Lock, 2007)All projects are subject to risk, many of which can have an enormous impact on plans. Lock (2007) deems the following are honourable four from the long catalogue of happenings that can be categorised as Acts of GodAn earthquake devastates a project organisations headquarters.A hurricane and flood put a project site under a metre of water and delay the start or ruin the work in progress.An influenza epidemic puts half the project workforce out of action. (Swine flu irruption 2008 recorded thousands of deal off work for over 5 days.)The project manager (a keen golfer) is struck by lightning.The national government can play an important part on the smooth running of a project. E.g. the project could be government-funded and is cancelled or abandoned through a political decision. Lock (2007) also considers less immediate concerns which are the wider and longer-term scotch consequences of g overnment policy leading to downscaling of projects, delays and cancellations in all sectors of industry.Decisions made outside the project team can also have an affect on many characteristics of planning. E.g. a decision is made at managerate level to carry out a project in a different company within the group from that initially anticipated or a strategic decision is made to cut short all new staff recruitment resulting in a lower number of available resources formerly expected to be available for projects.2.11.2 workings FactorsFigure 2.9 Working FactorsLock (2007)These are items which are likely to affect the project team on a daily basis. Examples include availability of resources, materials etc. pile are believed to be a construction organisations greatest resource. Construction operations depend on the knowledge and skills of people planning and executing the work. Muir (2005.) Research has been carried out to reveal that the construction industry is typically viewed as be ing one of the least attractive industries in which to work.Safety plays an important part in the running of a project. Construction by nature is unsurprisingly weighty with a high degree of hazard and risk. The Health Safety executive director believe each yearOver 1 million injuries and 2.3 million cases of ill-health are experienced by workersAround 40 million working days are to lost andOver 25000 individuals are forced to give up work because of injury or ill health.These cost British employers on average 3.3 to 6.5 billion each year. Most organisations are mindless of these figures and are often astonished to find out what the actual costs are.Recent HSE Examples (2009)An injury to a worker using an unguarded performance cost a small engineering company 45,000. And that was not all. The managing director was prosecuted from which two employees had to be made redundant tokeep the company afloat.At the other end of the scale the Piper Alpha explosion killed 167people and i ncurred estimated costs of over 2 billion.Accidents in construction can account for 3 6 % of total project costs.2.11.3 Contribution of effective PlanningFigure 2.10 Contributors of effective Planning (Lock, 2007).Effective Planning and scheduling influences the results of a project as is promotes well-organised working. Personnel who are not trying continually to overcome crises caused by bad planning can dedicate more time to achieving high quality standards. A well-planned project stands more incur of being completed on time and on budget.3.0 Methodology found on the findings in Chapter Two, a questionnaire was compiled aimed towards Construction Planners, Project Managers and other Construction Professionals. The questionnaire was developed in order to reach a significant last on what is happening in the industry today, confirming what challenges are faced on a day to day basis and what can be done for improvement. The author contacted various professionals in the industry w hom were contacted via Chartered Institute of Building website in order to get a mixed response. A letter was sent to each individual asking if they could spare time to answer 20 questions which were related to the research. The letter can be found in appendix. In addition, an online link to the questionnaire was sent to over 40 professionals in the industry, from which over 23 people took the time to fill it in. All results can be found in Chapter 4.3.1 IntroductionThe aim of this study is to go current planning techniques used within the construction industry and shape what influence the construction programme has in terms of project success. In order to achieve this aim, sufficient research has to be carried out. Research design is an action plan for getting from here to there, where here may be defined as the initial set of questions to be answered, and there is some set of conclusion (answers) about these questions. (Naoum 2007.) Between here and there may be a found number o f major shouts, including the collection of analysis of relevant data. (Yin 1994.) Developing a successful strategy was an important step towards the collection of key research information.3.2 Research StrategyResearch is the systematic and rigorous process of enquiry which aims to describe phenomena and to develop and test instructive concepts and theories. Ultimately it aims to contribute to a scientific body of knowledge. (Bowling 2009.) There are two types of research strategies, namely, quantitative research and qualitative research.Deciding on which type of researc

Motivation rewards

Motivation rewardsYou deport to get rewarded in the soul and the wallet. The bullion isnt enough, but a organisation isnt enough either (Hymowitz, Murray, 1999, 4). Motivation-the pull up stakesingness to exert oneself, consequent of the afore-implied insepar adapted and adscititious incentives, is original to the prosperity of one-on-ones, groups, organizations and society for absent of this, there exists a lack of satis incidention, productiveness and willpower that ultimately leads to inefficiency, dissatisf pieceion and management constraints. It is the aim of this paper to contest conventionalistic views, by asserting that chip in is of allude importance as job-design in achieving want-which will in turn provide an appreciation that both job-design and comport act as complementary agents in inducing varying levels of motif, greatly dependent upon circumstance. This will be accomplished through the exploration of the private implications of job-design and suffe r, through the occupation of practical examples, empirical research and motivational theories.Job-design is a comprehensive term, and for clarification purposes, it will within this paper include nameing(a) environment, relationships, feedback, achievement, indebtedness and lastly, growth and increaseal opportunities. Hereafter, aspects of job-design which motivate simply through the military action itself, such as feedback, achievement, responsibility, growth and development will be referred to as inalienable factors conversely, aspects of job-design which motivate through the anticipation of external rewards, such as changes in the lending environment, status through relationships and mainly requital, shall be referred to as extrinsic factors (Deci, 1972). Similarly, feed in this paper refers to salary, right-per-per fashionance schemes, and any other form of monetary compensation.Furthering this, Herzbergs hygiene- inducing theory examines the intricate relationship b etween the extrinsic and inbuilt components of job-design. The theory associates extrinsic aspects of job-design with the hygiene factors, of which the absence or inadequate development will leave alone in dissatisfaction, thereby prohibiting motivation from occurring however, when adequately present, motivation is still not attainable solely based on those factors (Herzberg, 1987). Conversely, the factors which argon introduceed to motivate are those of intrinsic nature, being capable of stimulating psychological growth. Upon application to conventional employment, it is commonly accepted that few mortals are able to dedicatedly pursue a goal, if exposed to inappropriate atmospheres, harassing superiors or neglectful colleagues. Thereby, it is unsounded that prerequisites of extrinsic factors essentialiness suffice, and only thereafter could an someone be genial and hence motivated by undertaking work which stimulates psychologically. Thus, it is imperative to record that the visible purpose of intrinsic factors available in the design of a detail job, will ultimately dictate the tip to which an individual set up be motivated.Alternatively, job characteristics theory suggests that motivation of employees is best achieved through the application of meaningful work-characterised by skill variety, task identity and task signifi fuckce, for which the employee is in person responsible, and receives clear feedback regarding practiseance (Hackman, Lee, 1979). Thereby, the comprehend purposefulness of a job, which is then strengthened through feedback, indicates that the design of a job in terms of potential achievement and its recognition, responsibility and consequently growth and development through evidentiary contribution-all intrinsic factors, will determine the attitude of an employee, and hence will hypothesise upon the sensed self-image of the individual in relation to their organization. The lack of feedback could typically hasten feel ings of insignificance, through impressions of the work not being important towards an organization. Hence, if an individuals perceived case is kinda minor, there will be a lack of incentive to perform well. Since people work more for meaning and enjoyment than anything else in their lives, not providing an individual with the opportunity to learn and develop through application of meaningful tasks and feedback, will leave behind in reduced commitment and motivation (Pfeffer, 1998).Illustrating the significance of acknowledging social needs incorporated into job-design a case select examining the make of improving working conditions of workers in The Western Electric phoner in Hawthorne, resulted in continuous increases in production during the experiment (Mayo, 1975) clearly illustrating the positive correlation between job-design and motivation. Additionally, the bringing together of individuals placed in an autonomous team, resulted in spontaneous but consistently increasi ng lettering and collaboration-once again improving productivity, demonstrated that the possibility to develop relationships and achieve esprit de army corps is fundamental, and of great significance (Fayol, 1949) in attaining motivation. However, even control groups seem to arrive at improved their productivity-most likely as a result of increased perceived importance a phenomenon, which furthermore underlines the influential impact of self-image upon motivation, generated by the percept of work as being meaningful to the organization.Individuals involved in work whose job-design allows for major involvement and dependency through autonomy and responsibility, would typically follow themselves being confident. Such an individual will start earned the wonder of management, and in turn developed an increasingly prevalent self-esteem. Taking this into account, the pecking order of needs suggests that such an individual would be motivated by having the alternative through commit ment in achieving his fullest potential self-actualization (Maslow, 1943). However, pre-requisites for the basic need satisfactions jibe to Maslow are amongst others, freedom to express ones self and freedom to investigate and render information. Drawing on this, individuals who are not autonomous-those who are not tending(p) this discretionary right, will never be able to undergo motivational enlightenment in other words, jobs which do not stimulate the intrinsic aspects of job-design have significantly reduced effects in motivating individuals harmonise to Maslows theory.Consequently, it is imperative to accommodate the needs of an individual to ensure optimal productivity, by providing meaningful, appreciated autonomous work in a steady environment, and thereby avoiding the instigation of absenteeism and the free-rider problem (Knights Willmott, 2007). Therefore, when the unavoidable occurs-sub-optimal provision of intrinsic and other job-design factors, organizations musti ness ensure that extrinsic aspects succeed for the purpose of compensating the motivational loss. For this reason, the primary man-made lake of extrinsic motivation catch up with, will is now examined.Implications of pay as a motivator have long been explored, for the vital purpose of determining to what extent individuals should be rewarded for their drifts. Traditional studies, which largely focus on the self-reported importance of pay, have frequently dismissed its absolute significance as a motivator (Rynes, Gerhart, Minette, 2004). Of such nature, an extensive study performed at the Minnesota Gas Company, was conducted in order to as current which of the factors (advancement, benefits, company, co-workers, hours, pay, security, supervisor, type of work, working conditions) were most important to employees, and as a result would be most motivating (Jurgensen, 1978). Males ranked pay as fifth and females seventh respectively in terms of importance. However, when those bring e mployees were asked to attribute the same factors in order of preference from the viewpoint of a fellow worker, both males and females remarkably ranked pay as the come in one factor These discrepancies between findings are suggestive of social norms dictating that money as a source of motivation is much less distinguished than factors involving challenging work, and ultimately contributing to society (Rynes, Gerhart, Minetta, 2004). Additionally, this example is indicative of traditional studies presenting distorted findings, thereby begging the question of how employees behaviours change in abidance with a change in pay.Hence more conventional studies which preferably examine behavioural proclivities, have largely concluded that increases in pay or introductions of individual pay incentives, have led to significant increases in production, far greater than those resulting from job enrichment procedures (Locke, et al, 1980). A meta-study of this nature, evaluated through behavio ural responses, examined the effects of inducing varying motivational techniques of firstly increased pay or pay per action, secondly setting goals and receiving feedback, thirdly employee participation in close making, and lastly job enrichment, arrived to the conclusion that pay was the greatest motivational factor (Locke, et al, 1980). By having observed the behavioural modifications of involved individuals as opposed to inborn self-reporting information, this case-study illuminates the possibility of pay being far more significant than what Herzberg, Hackman, Maslow and Lawler claim it to be.Despite there being evidence pinpointing the absolute importance of pay as a motivator, it must be considered that its significance does in fact depend on a number of factors (Rynes, Gerhart, Minetta, 2004). Firstly, it is imperative that variability exists in pay if this is not the case, when considering pay as a motivator, there would be no incentive to increase performance. Secondly, t he effects of pay as a motivator when variability is existent, is dependent on its telling contribution to the breathing wealth of an individual. Considering the implications of a billionaire receiving a raise will have ridiculously minute effects. Thus, the motivational effects of pay can be think to its relative impact in achieving varying levels on Maslows hierarchy of needs. Although traditionally simulated that pay can only satisfy lower-order needs (Lawler, 1969), it must be stressed that in contemporary actuality, pay greatly impacts an individuals perceived status, likeability, friendships, respectability and perhaps even sexual relationships.Moreover, it can be assumed that pay in the sense of allowing the accomplishment of the aforementioned much proclivity characteristics of man, will ultimately lead individuals being motivated by their desire for them. Especially since, descriptors attributed to characteristics are always relative to other individuals, it is vital that in the same way, the inputs of an individual-(which could potentially lead to those much desired traits through pay), relative to their outputs, are equivalent in comparison to others (Adams, 1965). If this condition is ill met, i.e. unjust circumstances exist an individual would have no incentive to perform well, thereby losing motivation to perform conscientiously as a result of pay. However, if an equitable environment is maintained, pay would result in motivating an individual as long as it possessed variation, and could impact status.Realistically, as pay is somewhat of a gateway to obtaining other goods, there will much be conflict involved regarding which individuals will benefit most. Variances in pay which is theoretically a determinant for motivation, is therefore met with competition to claim certain monetary rewards. The traditional method of measuring motivation, through changes in performance and output will often experience decreases, despite enhanced individu al motivation a phenomenon, explained by the undermining of teamwork and perception that certain relationships determine outcome, rather than individual input (Pfeffer, 1998). Even more so, through the lens of Marxism, pay-incentives will ultimately result in alienation from others and oneself, and could completely obstruct effectual functionality through head to head competition, instead of teamwork (Knights Willmott, 2007).Fundamentally, regardless of intrinsic and extrinsic factors being available to a specific job, motivation will be determined by an account of what rewards are possible, and are desired for terminate a certain task. Hence, the reward cling to and the probability of that reward occurring from ones effort is what dictates motivation (Lawler, 1969). As seen, both job-design and pay can largely result in motivation, however, the effectiveness of either are established by the vestigial reasons of undertaking an activity if it is simply for the joy of participati ng in the work with the expectancy of improving knowledge, pay will have very restrict effects in terms of motivation. However, if an individual only conducts a specific task, with the emphasis on craving monetary compensation, even job-designs offering a variety of intrinsic factors will not suffice. Especially considering that every individual will identify a different incentive for undertaking a certain activity-founded on varying cultures, morals and ideals, it is vital to provide a mixture of motivational inducements namely pay, and job-design.Subsequently, as seen, job-design through controlling the extent and availability of socially responsible environments, significant and acknowledged tasks, establishment of comradeships, responsibility and discretionary rights, ultimately determines the possible levels of motivation. Consequently, if those aspects are suboptimal, an insufficient reward value for the completion of a task would be incurred. Hence, pay-which is highly proba ble to occur, can to some extent be used to substitute for the absent intrinsic motivational factors in job-design, which would normally satisfy the psychological needs of individuals, by instead, attaining items and relationships which could indirectly improve self-esteem and image. In this light, both job-design and pay act as complements to each other, compensating for the lack of either, and once again inherently allowing for the followers of a goal. Hence it is understood that both pay and job-design share equal importance. Thereby, it is appreciated that single system approaches, regardless of whether their focus is on design, payare just plain destructive and suicidal (Lawler, 1980, 542) and that both must be equally considered, in order to maximise potential motivation.

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Broadband In New Zealand :: essays research papers

" investigate shows that we have high internet fees for the developed world."- Mr. Harbies (research scientist)The wideband growth index ranks 35 countries from around the world and puts impudently Zealands wideband growth rate at 40%. New Zealand is ranked tertiary lowest save ahead of the Czech Republic and Latvia. At the contain of 2002, only 1.74 New Zealanders per 100 ar users of wideband services. New Zealand has ane of the lowest growth rates and one of the lowest levels of broadband sagacity in the world.I had put up a poll on forums.pcworld.co.nz and the results were 4.88% people verbalize that broadband in New Zealand is cheap and 95.12% said it was expensive. Obviously, the majority of people who did the poll said that broadband in New Zealand is expensive. Personally, I think the prices for the speed ar ok but the information caps ar pathetic - IT IS RUINING THE MARKET. For people who do not see what a data cap is, it is the limit of how much data you are allowed to use each month.The reasons why people use broadband is because it is winged than dial-up and is cheaper than departting two phone lines. Heavy broadband users are normally gamers or heavy downloaders. Almost all heavy broadband users download games, music and/or videos. Im not a heavy downloader or secure gamer therefore I am not in desperate take of broadband. I will tranquilize prefer broadband because some oversea pages take s o l o n g t o l o a d.I bring out the reason why most people are lifelessness on dial-up internet are because most people think broadband is too expensive or they do not require broadband. whatever people say they do not have broadband because telecommunication will not upgrade their phone lines. I am still using dial-up internet because I thing the broadband rates are too high.Most users say that broadband in other countries are better than New Zealands. Someone posted a message on the forums that ADSL (broadband) in New Zealand is very expensive The speed of the 3GB plan is just not right. I could have it as 6mp/s and maybe get a PS2 as well too with that package in Hong Kong. A research scientist also said Jetstream is expensive and this is not an opinion, it is a fact. Research shows that we have high internet fees for the

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Western Religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam :: Religion Theology

My research paper studies the deuce-ace most significant and commonly known western sandwich Religions Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in name of their religious beliefs regarding the place and the role of women in society. Religion is the cardinal burden that binds a race or a religious group together, and it equips it with a sense of identity. It does this by providing a code of life, governing each aspects of life, and ascertain convictions of its followersOne such category is popularly referred to as occidental religions, thereby differentiating the religions constituting it from eastern religions. Islam, Judaism, and Christianity atomic number 18 of the three most popular religions that counterbalance on the foundation of a single creator belief and are therefore c tout ensembleed western religions. As these religions have the core conviction in common the religious belief that this universe came into existence, as well as controlled and governed by one God.The sig nificance and popularity of western religions can be unconquerable from the fact that Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are monotheistic faiths practiced by about half(prenominal) of the worlds populationBelievers in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are found on every continent, moreover tend to be concentrated in North and South America, Europe, Australia, Western Asia and North Africa. Christianity and Islam are growing influences in sub-Saharan Africa, often successor indigenous faiths. By studying the teachings of the western religions, we can comprehend the secure position of women in the society and the urgent need to remove all social and sexuality barriersIn addition, studying the place of women in the crystallise of spiritual teachings of the western religions, we can convince other women and people slightly in bringing about a positive change in the modern global village. Studying various religious beliefs and their in-depth analysis proves that there is a funda p sychogenic teaching and principle of all spiritual forms that humankind is to be treated as one concrete unit wherein all men and women share similar relationship and identical position in the eyes of the Almighty. The unjust oppression of women is based on false assumptions and preconceived notions by the male-dominating world, has been obvious and responsible for paving the way for serious gender issues to emerge. This caused religious conflicts among the masses. Confined to narrow realms of activity in society, deprived from the ingrained human rights, restricted to confined educations scope, open to unhealthy criticism and mental and physical abuse, this society has not permitted women to become what they potentially are.

Internet Censorship Essay - Internet Spamming and Censorship

profit Spamming and Censorship Not long ago, a manager of a giant Texas-based corporation wanted to sell his boat. In the old days, he would have posted a notice and a snapshot on the bulletin board in the employee lounge. This being the Nineties, he e-mailed everyone in the high society a description of his boats features and attached, of course, a few full-color images of the boat. As a result, his companys e-mail network crashed. Incidents like this occur because massive e-mailings, especially with high-quality graphics, employ much bandwidth than the network allows. The fact is that a 15-second transmission of a high-quality video on the web (the multimedia aspect of the Internet) lay claims as much bandwidth as it would take to transmit the text of War and Peace. The boat-marketing disaster is an example of what is known as internal spamming. The etymology of this new verb, to spam, is unclear. Most experts say its namesake is the canned lunchmeat. Others attri bute it to the Monty Python casual about mindless offerings. In either case, spamming is the act of sending unsolicited, mass-distributed pan e-mail. Spamming has arisen spontaneously as an outgrowth of the fact that transmission costs on the web have been reduced to almost zero. When spammers hit users with thousands of copies of the same message, slaughter is wreaked. When massive e-mailing clogs users incoming mail, the affected ones are not only the targeted users but also everyone else on their network. Frequent delays can cause deadlines to be missed, and businesses to go under. Within an organization, abuse of technology is controllable by establishing explicit company policy and enforcing it with strict sanctions. How... ...a) introduced a complex bill called The Unsolicited commercial-grade E-mail Choice Act, and Rep. Chris Smith (R., N.J.) has proposed a simple amendment to the existing fairness pertaining to junk faxes. The problem is that legislation only addresses th e symptoms it does not cure the disease. The card of rules of conduct is effective only when there is common agreement in a society. The Internet business has the unique characteristic of having no choice monopoly power hence, it poses no threat to users choices and freedom. Any attempt to regulate the Internet market through censorship of its pornographic tendencies will be met with vast anti-christian sentiment, and it faces an uphill fight. WORKS CITED C.N. Enterprises http//www.jmls.edu/cyber/cases/flowers1.html Communications Decency Act http//www.epic.org/cda/

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on the Life and Health of the British People :: Free Essays

The Impact of the industrial Revolution on the Life and Health of the British People disdain and industry changed dramatically during the Victorian period. The invention of bare-ass machines and the growth of factories abnormal the working lives of many an(prenominal) muckle. The invention of steam king meant that many jobs could at a time be done by machines and steam powered machines meant that more goods could be made and much faster than before, when they were made by hand. When manufacturers realised this, they ordinate their machines into huge factories so that all the work could be done in one place. Coal was needed to help make steam to power the machines. Many Victorian factories were built near embermines to make it easier to get the coal to the factory. The coal mining industry grew. Many workers were needed to keep the new machines running in the factories and more workers were needed to work in the coalmines. abundant industrial tow ns grew around the factories as people moved to factory areas to intent for work. In 1800, 75000 people lived in Manchester. By 1850, more than 300 000 people lived there. This made more goods for sale at home and abroad. The revolution had many impacts on Victorian life and many people benefited from industrialization precisely many people did not. For most people the Industrial Revolution was a good thing. Farm workers now had machines to help them and owners of the new factories and mills were fashioning lots of money from the goods, made in their factories, being exported and sold. New inventions such(prenominal) as the telegraph and the typewriter created different kinds of jobs. However, for many people, life was made much more difficult. Factory workers had no rights and had to work long hours in unspeakable conditions for a very low pay. The new machines were often not very safe and the workers lives were at risk when they were running them. Factory owners exploited their workers, specially women and children. But people were desperate for work and those without jobs were not