Construction Engineering Research: Integration and Innovation

Abstract

Construction engineers play a major role in the built environment by designing construction facilities and field operations and supplying materials. This paper summarizes and synthesizes the results of a research program to increase understanding and effectiveness of two key construction engineering focus areas: integration of project activities, and increasing innovation. Key findings related to project integration include planning activities to improve constructability and foster use of major construction methods. The integration research also included identifying constructability knowledge and using project models to increase its availability for designers. The second main theme of the research is process and product innovation. This investigation used case studies of innovative projects to identify major differences. This increased understanding led to overall findings regarding innovative design and construction organizations and projects and to highlight recommendations for practical applications to increase the scope and rate of innovation in practice. Both parts of the paper contribute to the core body of knowledge regarding construction engineering activities and their vital role in improving project performance in meeting cost, schedule, safety, quality, and sustainability objectives.