Wen-der Yu

Neuro‐Fuzzy Cost Estimation Model Enhanced by Fast Messy Genetic Algorithms for Semiconductor Hookup Construction

Semiconductor hookup construction (i.e., constructing process tool piping systems) is critical to semiconductor fabrication plant completion. During the conceptual project phase, it is difficult to conduct an ac- curate cost estimate due to the great amount of uncer- tain cost items. This study proposes a new model for estimating semiconductor hookup construction project costs. The developed model, called FALCON-COST, in- tegrates the component ratios method, fuzzy adaptive learning control network (FALCON), fast messy ge- netic algorithm (fmGA), and three-point cost estimation method to systematically deal with a cost-estimating en- vironment involving limited and uncertain data. In ad- dition, the proposed model improves the current FAL- ∗ To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: weichih@ mail.nctu.edu.tw. CON by devising a new algorithm to conduct building block selection and random gene deletion so that fmGA operations can be implemented in FALCON. The results of 54 case studies demonstrate that the proposed model has estimation accuracy of 83.82%, meaning it is approx- imately 22.74%, 23.08%, and 21.95% more accurate than the conventional average cost method, component ratios method, and modified FALCON-COST method, respec- tively. Providing project managers with reliable cost esti- mates is essential for effectively controlling project costs.

Quantitative constructability analysis with a neuro-fuzzy knowledge-based multi-criterion decision support system

This paper presents a multi-criterion decision model for quantitative constructability analysis based on a neuro-fuzzy knowledge-based system. The traditional constructability definition is modified so that constructability can be quantified, measured, and improved. A multi-layer information aggregation network is proposed to incorporate the managers subjective preference information. The constructors technology management policy can be reflected in the constructability evaluation process based on technology implementation preferences. A systematic approach to constructability problem detection and constructability improvement is developed to improve technology performance. Two examples of constructability analyses for alternative concrete formwork technologies are given to demonstrate the functions of the proposed methodology.

A neuro-fuzzy computational approach to constructability knowledge acquisition for construction technology evaluation

This paper describes a methodology for constructability knowledge acquisition of construction technologies. The methodology combines a neuro-fuzzy network-based approach with genetic algorithms. The combination of fuzzy logic with learning abilities of neural networks and genetic algorithms may allow for automatic acquisition of constructability knowledge from training examples and for providing understandable explanations for the reasoning process. The proposed methodology can provide a mechanism to trace back factors causing unsatisfactory construction performance and the necessary feedback to construction engineers for technology innovation. An application example is provided to demonstrate the capabilities of the proposed methodology.

Applying the AHP to support the best-value contractor selection – lessons learned from two case studies in Taiwan

Abstract Lately the Best-Value (BV) method for contractor selection has been receiving considerable attention in the public sector in many countries. However, the operations used in performing the BV method often differ due to the various government procurement requirements. Consequently, some of the methods popular in the academic community are not easily incorporated in the BV method in some countries. To enhance the procurement process, this study aims to gain experience by applying the well-known analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to weight the decision criteria for selecting BV contractors of two construction projects in Taiwan. Through these two case studies, this work confirms that the AHP provides a significant benefit for considering the individual preferences of all decision-makers when weighting the criteria. However, this study finds two major potential obstacles, the legal requirements associated with using the AHP and the time it takes to implement the AHP. To overcome these obstacles, this ...

KVAM: model for measuring knowledge management performance of engineering community of practice

The research presents the development of the knowledge value‐adding model (KVAM) for quantitative performance measurement of the community of practice (CoP) of the knowledge management system (KMS) in an A/E consulting firm. The proposed KVAM combines several existing KM theories including knowledge creation spiral, knowledge chain model, and knowledge value added theory to form a process‐level model for measuring the performance of a generic community of practice (CoP). Case study results show that the proposed KVAM provides KM managers with a useful tool not only to monitor the performance of a CoP and its members but also to plan an effective strategy for performance improvement. Unlike the traditional organizational‐level approaches, the proposed KVAM was concluded to better reflect the actual values solely generated by the KMS rather than other management factors.

PIREM: a new model for conceptual cost estimation

A new conceptual construction cost estimating method, namely, Principal Item Ratios Estimating Method (PIREM), is presented. The proposed PIREM integrates several existing conceptual estimating methods (including parametric estimating, ratios estimating, and cost significant model) with advanced nonlinear mapping techniques, and adopts a scheme that separates unit prices with the quantities of a cost item. It allows estimators to estimate based on the prevailing unit prices in the marketplace, thus the fluctuation of prices can be reflected on a real‐time basis. Two comprehensive case studies were conducted for verification of PIREM. The demonstration case studies show that PIREM is able to provide accurate and the most updated estimates when advanced mapping technologies are incorporated.

Time-dependent construction social costs model

Negative impacts of construction works on local traffic, environment and business have been pointed out by previous researchers. However, little work has been conductd on the quantification of such costs. A time‐dependent construction social costs (COSCO) model is developed for quantifying the negative impacts that result from construction operations during the field execution phase. The COSCO model is a simplified but practical model that calculates the construction social costs in a conservative way. A roadwork construction project is used to show the applicability of the COSCO model. It is found that the daily social cost was US

Quantifying Benefits of Knowledge Management System -A Case Study of an Engineering Consulting Firm

18 188–5.52 times the project construction cost. This is a striking illustration of management techniques for mediating the social costs of construction projects.

Pricing Strategy for Best Value Tender

Quantifying the benefits of a knowledge management system (KMS) is a difficult job. Very little literature was found to report the rate of investment (ROI) resulted from a KMS. Quantification of returns from KMS investments involves several tasks: identification of value added knowledge management (KM) activities, identification of benefits generated by the value added KM activities, and quantifying the values of benefits. This paper is dedicated to the development of quantitative models for measuring time, man-hour, and cost benefits resulted from a KMS of an engineering consulting firm. Details of the proposed quantitative KMS benefit models are presented with a case study application to a local leading engineering consulting firm. It is found from the case study that the average time benefit (TB) is 63%; the average man-hour benefit (MHB) is 73.8%; and the average cost benefit is 86.6%.

Is the Knowledge Management System Truly Cost Effective? Case Study of KM-Enabled Engineering Problem Solving

AbstractUnlike the traditional price-focused lowest bid (LB), the best value (BV) tendering process selects the contractor that offers a product or service that is most beneficial to the procurement entity in various aspects. Existing pricing models, including cost-based probabilistic models and market-based neoclassical microeconomic theory, were developed for LB. Very few operational models exist for BV tenders due to the difficulty of measuring the price differences with respect to the variance of product or service quality. This paper proposes a price elasticity of quality (PEQ) model that provides useful tools to measure the PEQ of a product or service offered by contractors in a tendering process. Based on the proposed model, a bidding zone is suggested for the contractor in light of competitiveness and profitability. Two working examples are used to show the applicability of the proposed method.