Testing the Value of 4D Visualizations for Enhancing Mindfulness in Utility Reconstruction Works

Abstract

This paper reports on an ethnographic-action research study of four-dimensional (4D) based coordination in three utility reconstruction projects. This research shows that implementation of 4D models in planning meetings supports mindful behavior, making stakeholders: (1) sensitive to operational processes, (2) pre-occupied with errors and inaccuracies, (3) resistant to simplifying construction plans, and (4) resilient and aware of process alternatives. By being first in synthesizing 4D implementation and mindfulness literature, this study makes a step toward a more systematic and comprehensive analysis of the impact of 4D on coordination. This study provides a practical contribution by showing that stakeholders in utility projects can use 4D to better anticipate and contain unwanted situations. This helps them tackling coordination issues effectively, and may eventually reduce the overruns and rework in utility construction.