Football In America Essay Research Paper In free essay sample

Football In America Essay, Research Paper In a society where competition and difficult work are the regulation, the game of football and in peculiar, high school football, with its odds and ends of mores, norms and rites have symbolically come to stand for the American life. Like many of the conventions in American society, high school football has over the old ages ingrained in its participants teamwork, trueness, and the value of difficult work. In add-on, the establishment of high school football non merely pertains to the game, but has influenced many participants in the affairs of gender, albeit with a certain grade of struggle. Finally, high school footballs # 8217 ; rites and rites of transitions have enforced the properties that have been deemed worthy, and have further inculcated beliefs in its sharers. In this paper, I will reason that high school football is non merely simply a game, but a little yet really existent autotype of the American society as a whole. We will write a custom essay sample on Football In America Essay Research Paper In or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In high schools all across America, football has been the prevailing athletics for coevalss. From the early yearss of football starting in the 1920 # 8217 ; s to the present twenty-four hours, football jocks have started their callings on high school Fieldss. Coachs on every football squad from the smallest towns to the Nationwide Division One title-holder squads have to a big grade stressed a certain criterion of behavior and behaviour. Among these properties that are taught, teamwork is no uncertainty the most of import. Vince Lombardi, considered by many to hold been the finest football manager in history said, # 8220 ; Football is a game of many lessons in teamwork # 8230 ; The lone true satisfaction a participant receives is the satisfaction that comes from being portion of a successful squad, irrespective of what his ain personal terminals are. # 8221 ; ( Flynn, 15 ) . Countless managers in high school have agreed with Lombardi, and have taught teamwork as a agency of accom plishing triumphs. Raul Palafox, a Central California League foremost squad receiving system and first squad safety attributed much of his success to his squad. He said, # 8220 ; It # 8217 ; s the squad that wins the games. They # 8217 ; re the 1s that enabled me to make every bit good as I did, and I gave everything I had for them in return. I # 8217 ; m nil on the field without my team. # 8221 ; Palafox like many other participants have attributed their personal success to their squad, and it can be said that this is a consequence of the lessons participants have undergone by their managers. Loyalty is besides another trait that managers have extremely stressed. Many times in my ain personal football calling my manager instructed us in this trait. An illustration of this was the fact that we were non to speak to anyone but fellow participants before a game. This would demo that our concentration and attending were merely on the undertaking at manus, and the people that would enable our triumph. Such trueness has been shown in other contexts as good. Norton Kim, another extremely decorated first squad participant said, # 8220 ; There # 8217 ; s a batch of times where I # 8217 ; ve gotten into battles because ( people ) were messing with my friends # 8230 ; They # 8217 ; rhenium ( football teammates ) like my brothers. # 8221 ; On and off the field, many high school football participants have shown in action and deed how much the trueness taught to them through the game has affected their lives. Finally, the moral principle of working difficult can safely be said to hold been taught to merely approximately every football squad in the state. David Nelson, a football manager at the high school degree said about football, # 8220 ; # 8230 ; it requires wash uping difficult work, to the point of drudgery. # 8221 ; ( Nelson, 43 ) . In support of this, particular preparation cantonments notoriously called # 8220 ; Hell Week # 8221 ; , have been formed around the state for high schools. During these # 8220 ; Hell Week # 8221 ; developing period, participants have to condition much harder than usually, as this weeds out participants unwilling to work hard, in add-on to conveying the willing participants into form. Exercises such as three stat mi tallies, in 30 lb football tablets in 100 grade conditions are non unusual at all. Contrary to popular belief, this point of working hard does non merely travel towards the games played. As noted by Nelson, # 8220 ; Over 40 per centum of all major hurts and more than 75 per centum of all hurts happen during practice. # 8221 ; ( Nelson, 32 ) . Players are non merely bucked up, but are demanded to give their uttermost non merely in game state of affairss, but continuously. These traits mentioned above non merely play an built-in function in the kingdom of football but besides in general to life in American society. The properties of teamwork, trueness and difficult work are desirable in the work force of today. They are so desirable in fact, that many self-help gurus have made 1000000s learning many how to derive these traits and others they deem necessary for success. In learning their participants about the importance of these aforesaid qualities, high school football managers have non merely developed quality participants, but have besides instigated many of the qualities necessary for success in ulterior life. Quite perchance the most controversial capable affair that has been brought to attending approximately high school football is the manner participants have had their beliefs influenced about gender, viz. sexual penchant. Many participants and even managers have come under fire from persons that were below the belt discriminated against due to their sexual penchant. In one instance in Boise, Iowa, a high school senior, Timothy Watkins was repeatedly verbally abused and discriminated against by his manager for being homosexual, when the fact of the affair was that he was so non gay. In my ain personal experiences my former football squads # 8217 ; positions of homophiles were the antithesis of what football participants should be. Football participants were supposed to be tough and manfully. Homosexuals on the other manus, were typecast as weak and unskilled, and word pictures of them holding lisps and # 8220 ; broken # 8221 ; wrist motions were prevailing among many of the particip ants. In fact, the unequivocal participant would non merely be one that would execute good on the field, but would besides be popular with the ladies. Abuses such as # 8220 ; faggot # 8221 ; and # 8220 ; Homo # 8221 ; were passed on to those who many of the participants felt were non playing to the # 8220 ; standard # 8221 ; that somehow straight persons played at. This can be seen as highly sardonic in the fact that many anthropologists have seen football as, # 8220 ; # 8230 ; a signifier of symbolic homosexual behaviour, ( similar ) to the induction rites of Aboriginal Australia # 8230 ; # 8221 ; ( Rosman, Rubel 78 ) . Dundes, a athleticss anthropologist besides stated that football was, # 8220 ; # 8230 ; combat between groups of males trying to asseverate their maleness by perforating the endzones of their rivals. # 8221 ; ( Rosman, Rubel 78 ) . The penetrating of endzones can symbolically seen as a really homoerotic symbol, and yet the same persons who have accepted these symbols as actual manifestations in their life, have been the 1s discriminated against. While morally incorrect in know aparting against homosexuals, these influences can be paralleled to the favoritism many homosexuals feel in mundane life. If a participant on the football squad I participated in was homosexual, so there would be a great trade of tenseness amongst the remainder of the squad, peculiarly during shower and altering times. In the same sense, many instances of homophiles being shunned or avoided in the work force have been tantamount to the mode in which a homophile on a football squad would be received. Doubtless, there would be some signifier of credence for homosexuals in both contexts, but for the bulk of their colleagues or participants, there would be a sense of edginess and sometimes outward ill will. One person that I interviewed, Randy Wiecek, a varsity football participant for three old ages, was an outstanding line backer at a extremely graded high school in Southern California. He was besides a homosexual. In his battles with his squads homophobic inclinations he decided to maintain his sexual penchant a secret from everyone on the squad. He said about the state of affairs, â€Å"It was truly di fficult. Guys would do cheery gags all the clip, and I’d have to express joy along with them. I hated a batch of them so much, but I loved football more than I hated them.† While more tolerance has been shown towards different sexual penchants than in the yesteryear, Wiecek’s narrative of favoritism and spite prove to be the regulation towards homosexuals in football. This is complementary towards the intervention that homophiles have endured in other facets of life, and proves further how high school football has infiltrated into the heads of its participants. Finally, rites among a high school football squad have influenced participants to believe and move in certain ways. Some rites have no uncertainty been good to both participants and managers, but others have non been so baronial. One ritual prevalent in most high school football rites is that of the pre-game supplication. While a dignified ritual it is someway dry that many of these football participants, some of the rowdiest, strident, and hedonic persons in the school, would all fall in together in a supplication with earnestness. In the same sense, many managers known for their ability to cuss fluently and to move upon any violent inclination, would fall in the supplication with equal piousness as their participants. While hypocritical in many positions, this behaviour in bend can be seen as congruent to many of the church-goers in America. While go toing church, these same members would from Sunday afternoon to Saturday dark indulge themselves in all manners of secular pleasance. Another ritual, this clip one with great significance and self-respect is the keeping of custodies amongst participants walking out onto the football field. This ritual held by about every high school squad has shown the integrity that the squad possesses. In this gesture, teammates, even 1s with hostility towards each other, are to keep custodies in mark of support for each other and for their group. Another great rite that has been used in many high school squads is the quoting of great football managers, in peculiar Vince Lombardi. Our caput manager before every game would declaim the quotation mark that made Lombardi celebrated. He quoted Lombardi stating, # 8220 ; The quality of a adult male # 8217 ; s life is in direct proportion to his committedness to excellence, irrespective of his chosen field or endeavor. # 8221 ; ( Flynn, 124 ) . Immediately following this, we would hotfoot out onto the field spliting with pride and nisus for the excellence that Lombardi dreamt about . Aside from the slightly good rites listed supra, there have been some rites that have been really condemnable in the athletics of high school football. Recently, a manager in Schurr High School in Monterrey Park was fired for holding shown adult movies to his squad earlier games as a kind of encouragement to his squad. The bulk of his participants were bush leagues, and parents non to advert jurisprudence enforcement functionaries were outraged. This in bend can be seen in many of today # 8217 ; s persons in the concern sphere, where allegations of sexual torment and improper behavior have been frequent. Another rite that has been widespread in many of the states high school football squads is the exclusion of females in the athletics. My alma mater, La Canada high school was featured in the LA Times when late for the first clip since its # 8217 ; origin, the football squad enabled a female to play football. While this has been more common during the last few old ages, all femal e football participants prior to Sarah Rathburn, were placekickers. Rathburn is alone in that she plays on the defensive line. When asked about the new female participant at his school, Norton Kim said, # 8220 ; I don # 8217 ; t mind that much, but there are a few things that bother me about it. I # 8217 ; m non being male chauvinist or anything, but she # 8217 ; s non a really good participant and she insists on playing defence, where you need the most strength and velocity. ( Head Coach ) Wheeler puts her in games above other participants with more senior status and accomplishments, merely so he can acquire promotion from her. It would be merely as bad if it were a cat that did the same thing. # 8221 ; In response to the allegation that Kim made, I asked Sarah Rathburn what she felt about her football experience. She said, # 8220 ; I think I # 8217 ; m merely every bit good as anyone on the squad. The ground why I play is non to acquire attending, but because I truly love t he game. I # 8217 ; ve been watching football since I was three, likely longer than any of the cats on this squad. I play because I try hard, non because ( Coach ) Wheeler gives me particular intervention because I # 8217 ; m a girl. # 8221 ; This rite of sex and gender struggles is besides shown in similar contexts to the many gender struggles in the workplace. Furthermore, as adult females in football were once merely kickers, and females like Rathburn have pioneered their entry into different places, so excessively have adult females once confined to secretaries and nurses, now aspire to places such as CEO and M.D. These rites, and many more in football have actively influenced its # 8217 ; members, and has besides measured up to many of the popular beliefs of today, and has proven that football rites have mirrored the existent universe. High school football, with all its mores, norms rites and influences has in kernel emulated existent life, with its ain criterions and regulations of behavior. Through the instruction of difficult work, trueness and teamwork, those who have taught these traits have non merely produced better football participants, but have taken things necessary from the concern universe and have transplanted it into their participants. Besides, football has influenced its members on the topic of gender, which like in American society today is fraught with favoritism, confusion and contention. Finally, high school football with its rites, good and bad have paralleled rather nicely with rites that many American grownups employ in their every twenty-four hours lives. In these rites, it is seen merely how good high school football is a smaller version of life itself. On the playing field of life, high school football will ever be an index of world # 8217 ; s values, beliefs and rites

Reading Comprehension for Students With Dyslexia

Reading Comprehension for Students With Dyslexia Students with dyslexia often focus so much on sounding out each word they miss the meaning of what they are reading. This deficiency in reading comprehension skills can cause problems not only in school but throughout a persons life. Some of the problems that occur are a lack of interest in reading for pleasure, poor vocabulary development and difficulties in employment, especially in job positions where reading would be required. Teachers often spend a great deal of time helping children with dyslexia learn to decode new words, decoding skills and improving reading fluency. Sometimes reading comprehension is overlooked. But there are many ways teachers can help students with dyslexia improve their reading comprehension skills. Reading comprehension is not just one skill but a combination of many different skills. The following provides information, lesson plans and activities to help teachers work to improve reading comprehension skills in students with dyslexia: Making Predictions A prediction is a guess as to what will happen next in a story. Most people will naturally make predictions while they read, however, students with dyslexia have a hard time with this skill. This can be because their focus is on sounding out words rather than thinking about the meaning of the words. Summarizing Being able to summarize what you read not only helps in reading comprehension but also helps students retain and remember what they read. This is also an area students with dyslexia find difficult. Vocabulary Learning new words in print and word recognition are both problem areas for children with dyslexia. They may have a large spoken vocabulary but cannot recognize words in print. The following activities can help build vocabulary skills: 15 Tips for Developing Word Recognition SkillsFlash Cards for Word RecognitionLesson Plan: Using Art to Increase Vocabulary Skills in Students with Dyslexia Organizing Information Another aspect of reading comprehension that students with dyslexia have a problem with is organizing the information they have read. Often, these students will rely on memorization, oral presentations or following other students rather than internally organizing information from written text. Teachers can help by providing an overview before reading, using graphic organizers and teaching students to look for how information is organized in a story or book. Inferences Much of the meaning we derive from reading is based on what is not said. This is implied information. Students with dyslexia understand literal material but have a harder time finding hidden meanings and making inferences. Using Contextual Clues Many adults with dyslexia rely on contextual clues to understand what is read because other reading comprehension skills are weak. Teachers can help students develop contextual skills to help improve reading comprehension. Using Previous Knowledge When reading, we automatically use our personal experiences and what we have previously learned to make the written text more personal and meaningful. Students with dyslexia may have a problem connecting prior knowledge to written information. Teachers can help students activate prior knowledge by pre-teaching vocabulary, providing background knowledge and creating opportunities to continue building background knowledge.

Roles Expectations and Competencies Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Roles Expectations and Competencies - Assignment Example Furthermore, responsibilities such as promoting professionals and improving services for the providers of continuing education should be performed effectively. The nurse educator should further have the ability to enhance the quality of the services provided by the health education specialist. Moreover, the nurse educator should be responsible for supporting and promoting the profession in order to earn considerable recognition among the patients (NCHEC, 2008). National League for Nursing (NLN) has provided certain competencies and responsibilities required for academic educators. Firstly, the candidate should facilitate learning along with teaching strategies suitable for learner needs, required learner results, content and context. Furthermore, the candidate should effectively practice evidence-based teaching in order to provide clear understanding to the health specialists. Secondly, the candidate should be responsible to develop nurses and incorporate behaviors and values which a re expected to fit in the role. Moreover, the candidate should have the ability in providing various sources to diverse learners in order to meet their individual learning needs. Thirdly, the candidate should implement various strategies for assessing and evaluating the practices of the health specialist students in order to enhance the teaching-learning process (National League for Nursing, 2005). In addition, the candidate should be responsible for participating in course design and making evaluation of the program results for the development of healthcare trends and for preparing health specialists to function efficiently in the healthcare industry. The candidate should identify that their roles are multidimensional thus, requiring a higher level of commitment for development and maintaining advanced competencies. Furthermore, the candidate is required to participate in professional development prospects that enhance the effectiveness of their specified roles. Moreover, the candi date should exhibit the qualities of scholar, such as creativity, integrity, vitality and perseverance. Last but not the least, the candidate should have the ability to identify the factors of social, political, economical and institutional factors that help to promote higher education as a foundation for making effective recommendations and decisions (National League for Nursing, 2005). Descriptions of Each of the Three Positions Advertisement of Quintiles The advertisement provided by Quintiles in order to recruit Nurse Educator field-based, specified that the candidate should be greatly enthusiastic in leading a team of health specialist for delivering excellence in care to its clients. The candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Nursing or extensive industry/clinical experience. Preference would be given to the candidates who have an experience of Rheumatology/Gastrointestinal (GI) along with the passion and enthusiasm for providing excellent services to the clients (Quinti les, 2012). As a nurse educator, the candidate should be responsible for coordinating and supervising all the sections of clinical care along with providing training to the educators and staff facilities. Thus, according to the competency statements mentioned above, the requirements of the advertisement appropriately fulfill the descriptions posted on the advertisement. However, after viewing the advertisement I wanted to know

Problems The Eurozone was Facing in 2011-2012 due to Poor Performances Essay

Problems The Eurozone was Facing in 2011-2012 due to Poor Performances of Some Members and Their Resolving - Essay Example political, economic, financial and social challenges facing the Euro zone along and also explains the measures that can be taken to solve the crisis threatening the collapse of the Euro zone single currency – the Euro. Current political, economic, financial and social challenges facing the Euro zone Political problems in Eurozone Stiglitz (2011) has pointed out that more of political in nature rather than economic. In his opinion, â€Å"If Europe issues Eurobonds, debts are manageable. Even a 150 per cent debt to GDP ratio can be handled if interest rates are low enough, but if rates are high they cannot be†(Stiglitz, 2011). Many people have the illusion that the Eurozone problems are caused by economic factors rather than political factors. Such people believe that Europe is comparatively a stable political region and therefore political problems have fewer roles in causing any challenge to the functioning of Eurozone. However in reality, as in the case of many other r egions in the world, political problems are causing more damages to the ambitions of Eurozone to become the strongest economic power in the world. For example, Greece is one Eurozone country which is facing huge financial problems now. Kotios et al, (2011) have pointed out that the inconsistent economic policies of Greece have contributed heavily to the downfall of Greece (Kotios et al, 2011, p. 263). Greece adopted some kind of economic policies which were unsuitable to the needs of the current economic climate. Their inconsistent economic policies affected Greece as well as Eurozone. â€Å"The European Central Bank is under pressure to bail out indebted countries by printing more euros. But it really isn't as straightforward as that† (Obama Accuses Eurozone of "Problem of Political Will", 2011).... This paper describes the full range of political, economic, financial and social problems, that the Eurozone was experiencing in the years, following the global financial crisis. The crisis exposed weaknesses in Greece economy, as well as in economies of some other members. That economic problems in turn became the threat to the existence of the single currency. The paper also reviews set of economic measures introduced by the members in 2011-2012, that were aiming at overcoming the aftermath of the global crisis The member of Eurozone countries have adopted Euro as their currency in order to reduce the formalities in money transactions of economic transactions between these countries. In short, Eurozone can be defined as a geographic and economic region that consists of all the European Union countries, that have fully incorporated the euro as their national currency. The inconsistent economic policies of Greece have contributed heavily to the downfall of Greece. Greece adopted some kind of economic policies which were unsuitable to the needs of the current economic climate. That affected Greece as well as Eurozone. The ECB was under pressure to bail out indebted countries by printing more euros. Still, many of the European countries were against printing more euros to assist Greece like nations. The absence of centralised political management was causing problems to the functioning of Eurozone. Each member countries were functioning independently and the political control of Eurozone over member countries was negligible. Economic problems in some Eurozone member countries were causing problems in all the other members. Some ot them believed that the poor performances of Spain and Greece were retarding their growth also.

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Building Information Modelling (BIM) 2.1 Introduction As expressed in the Egan report (1998), the UK construction industry is a significant contributor to the domestic economy in the UK that it is simply too important to be overlooked. The construction process and its success are influenced by various factors and choosing the most effective investment to improve the construction process is a very important decision. Building Information Modelling has been said to represent a paradigm that will have comprehensive benefits brought to the construction industry (Eastman, 2009b). Popov et al. (2010) claimed that the growing diversity of disciplines, professionals, tasks, events in respect of the management during design and construction stages of projects, plus the more competitive cost and more intense deadlines with higher quality expectations as well as the need for enhancing technology are the driving force of information modelling in the construction industry. Building Information Modelling, or better known as BIM is not; strictly speaking a new technology as it has been developing and used by other industry sectors since 1950s i.e. the automotive and aero plane industries. These industries have been way ahead of the AEC industry as for the past 20 years, fully utilizing the available technology for their industries (Augustsson, 2007). Subsequently, this literature review will assess and evaluate the historic and current information in respect of Building Information Modelling to enable an understanding on the past development of BIM, the benefits that it could offer to our construction projects as well as identifying the barriers entailing for the full adoption of BIM among the contractors in the UK construction industry. 2.2 What is BIM? As defined by BIMForum:- â€Å"A building information model (BIM) is an object-oriented building development tool that utilizes 5-D modeling concepts, information technology and software interoperability to design, construct and operate a building project, as well as communicate its details† (BIMForum, 2007). One common understanding to describe BIM is the building development tool that creates a three dimensional (3D) geometric model with computer softwares. The model then can be used to assist the design, construction and operational process and also acting as a communication tool (BIMForum 2007). Nevertheless a 3D geometric model wouldnt be sufficient to answer the demanding construction requirements at present. A BIM model contains a high level of intelligence which not just limited to a three-dimensional geometric representation of the building, (GSA, 2007) but also includes 5D modelling where the 4th dimension is referring to time element whilst the 5th dimension is referring to cost. In addition, as indicated by BIMForum (2007), there might be further development that is inclusive of procurement application which is the 6D as well as the operational applications which is the 7D. In general, a building information model is a digital representation, â€Å"virtual† representati on of all the physical and functional characteristic of a building which also acts as a resource of information storage for the building which could be shared/used from the inception period and throughout the lifecycle of the building. 2.3 The past development and revolution of BIM Conventionally, constructing a building was merely the responsibility of the Architects and the Engineers, designing on papers and then the Contractors build it. Cyon Research (2003) stated that Construction projects have always been defined by various drawings and documents where at times might be in conflict with each other thus showing inconsistency. These inconsistencies are the typical issues that often aroused when the documents and drawings are maintained separately with different participants working on different or superseded documents. There will always be unanticipated field costs, delays and eventual lawsuits between various parties within a project team as a result of errors and omissions in paper based communication. According to Vinod Kumar (2009), the beginning of orthographic drawings and perspectives can be traced back as far as during the Renaissance era when Filippo Brunelleschi represented the plans in drawing format for Santa Maria del Fiore in Italy in order for the patrons to understand how the building would look like. Vinod Kumar (2009) further explains the evolution of systematic documentation from manual methods all the way till our presently available technology by dividing it into three phases: I phase Till early 1980s: Before 1980s the traditional way of creating design documents are through manually drawn lines representing building i.e. plans, sections, elevations and etc. II phase 1980s to Late 1990s: This was the period where major change took place from manual drafting towards computer aided drafting when computers were firstly introduce. There is more elaborated information as the complexity of buildings increased as well as more specialization in the design and construction process. Use of computers, especially for 2D drawings and reports are ground-breaking changes into the systematic Documentation. III phase Beginning of the 2K: With the buildings degree of complexity presently, the number of parties involved in the process of drawing production has also increased. In line with the development of technology there are also more introduction of more interrelated and integrated building system i.e. HVAC system, energy requirement and etc. The computer based technology has also been constantly updated to reduce errors that occur but nonetheless they are still merely the collections of manually created, non-intelligent lines and text. The diagram below shows the evolution from manual methods all the way till the introduction of new technologies. A previous study by Autodesk (2002) which correlates with Vinods statement, mentioned that in the early 1980s the Construction industry took one step forward when the architects began using PC based Computer Aided Design, CAD. It is said that the CAD system was adapted with ease by the Industry as it was initiated from the pin-bar drafting which the Industry was familiar with. Thus many construction documents and drawings were completed using CADD rather than being drafted manually on drawing boards. DWS files were then exchanged in replacement of paper drawings, from simple graphics to the information content on the building. The CAD files developed significantly, communicating the information on the building which plotted drawing couldnt. Following that Holzer (2009) also stated that in the late 70s and early 80s, CAD systems like RUCAPS was used where it operated in parametric environment enabling 2D information extracted from a 3D model. RUCAPS allowed multi user access and put f orward a new way in generating, distributing as well as retrieving building information which was different fromt he common drafting processes. Unfortunately the down side of this system was the high cost and slow speed of the system as well as its inability of producing more complex geometrical shapes. Nevertheless, some of the fundamental concept of RUCAPS can be found in the current BIM software such as Autodesks REVIT, Bentleys TRIFORMA, Gehry Techs DIGITAL PROJECT and etc. Nowadays, the use of BIM is very common within the manufacturing and aerospace industries where new products or product changes are modelled virtually for the assessment of design, performance and production. . We are also in the process of experiencing a similar revolution in the construction industry. BIM and other related technologies have emerged since the past decade and developing up till the present where they have been acknowledge as the platform for the design and construction of various projects (Shen, et.al, 2009). Nevertheless, FWCI (2009) argued that it is important to understand that BIM is not CAD+ or the â€Å"Son† of CAD as BIM functions in its own approach and discipline. BIM, acting as a single source entry for project team involves the process of generating, storing, managing, exchanging and sharing building information in an interoperable and reusable way. Generally a BIM system is a tool that enables users to integrate and reuse building information and domain knowledge through the lifecycle of a building Presently there are numerous BIM products on the market by various vendors. Autodesk Revit was considered as one of the leading BIM creation tools. Bentley Systems, Graphisoft, Vico software and Nementcheck are also currently very well-known in the market. They each provide various building model tools to design a building (Rosenberg 2006). With this technology, the information needed for a projects design, construction and operation are contained in a model digitally which is centralized and could be shared across all associated project stakeholders (COBRA, 2008). 2.4 Various understanding of BIM in the Industry At present there is a vast amount of information that is available in respect to the definition of premise of BIM. Holzer (2007) explained that even though the application of BIM becomes more accepted and common throughout the industry, but there has been a problem in agreeing the definition of BIM. The common definitions would be described as a method for project information management with the combination of non-geometry attributes with geometrical entities, or defined mostly by pointing out its capabilities for cost-control and to facilities management. Holzer (2007) continues to claim that because the term BIM is often used by vendors for their marketing strategies in order to promote their company software, the definition of BIM technology has become very confusing. On the other hand, Eastman et al (2008) has suggested that in order to deal with this confusion it is useful to describe modelling solutions that do not utilize BIM technology. This includes tools that create models containing only 3D data with no object attributes, models that do not utilize parametric intelligence, models composed of multiple 2D CAD reference files that must be combined to define the building as well as models that allow changes to dimensions in one view that are not automatically reflected in other views. Furthermore, another popular â€Å"talk about† issue within the industry is the multi dimension product models, the ability of BIM to provide multi dimensional application. (GSA 2007) has stated that 4D models represent 3D models plus time which include project phasing, construction scheduling whilst 5D models incorporate the costs elements. Nonetheless, Lee (2005) has identified the additional numbering of the dimension as â€Å"nD† modelling. Lee stated that nD modelling is an extension of the building information model that incorporates multi-aspects of design information required at each stage of the lifecycle of a building facility. On the other hand, in the year 2006, The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) also published â€Å"The Contractors Guide to BIM† which touched on the issue in respect of the continuing usage of the numbering i.e. 6D, 7D, and etc has therefore acknowledged the extended application of the 3D tool as â€Å"XD† (AGC , 2006). This research is mainly focusing on the 3D models with incorporation of time (4D) and cost (5D) elements. 2.5 Benefits of BIM There are many obvious benefits that BIM could offer to various parties including the owners, planners, engineers, estimators, designers and etc. It is understood that different stakeholders would value BIM differently. They may share the same information but have different responsibilities and uses on the model. From a Contractors perspective, BIM brings essential value for enabling virtual construction of the structure within a single source file (Hardin, 2009). As quoted from the BIM 2009 Smart Report, â€Å"A model is Worth a Thousand Drawings†. Contractors are making use of the intelligent model for assisting them with various activities i.e. planning construction sequences, cost estimations and bidding, conflict resolution and visualization project demonstration for client and etc (Neeley, 2010). The incorporation of intelligent data improves the models construction and post-construction realities, which also enables the contractor to get closer to the world of the desig ner (Sage software 2008). The initial literature review has showed that costs are significantly reduced, time is saved and the quality improved. 2.5.1 Single source Model In conventional process, the Project Manager reviews the updated drawings and reflects any changes onto the schedule as the design progress. Many times the same information is entered into different program. Every repetition increases the probability of inconsistency and error occurrence. BIM on the other hand allow direct changes applied to the single model. As both designers and contractors have access to the model simultaneously, this corresponding process also enables them to reduce lead times which normally take place throughout the period of sending back-and-forth the documents. The collaborative environment contributes to a substantial time saving during pre construction. Extra coordination checks are also unnecessary because the information generated from the model will lead to fewer errors on site which normally is caused by inaccurate and uncoordinated information. In the case of any last minute design changes, addendums, clarifications and etc it could be altered and updat ed to the model automatically across the project team, from early design through completion (Hardin, 2009). These ensure that all parties are working with the latest information. With all the information contained within the BIM database it will definitely increase the efficiency between the Architect, Engineer as well as the Contractors. 2.5.2 The 3D Visualization Clash Detection The 3D visualisation capability of BIM models can be of great benefit as a means of testifying the workability and demonstrating aspects of the construction itself such as construction sequencing, logistics, access, storage and security (C3 System 2009). BIM allows for â€Å"building twice† which offers various benefits like improvement in Constructability, maintainability, cost estimate accuracy and etc. This reduces ambiguities before commencement of actual construction (Robert, 2005). The construction issues for layperson or non layperson are also made easier to understand as the 3D visualisation helps them to understand any constraints that the client had not made clear earlier, or were misunderstood (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). One of the major benefits which BIM could provide for contractors is clash detection. As identified by FWIC (2009), a hard clash is where more than one object is being designed to occupy the same space whilst a soft clash is where the objects in the design is too close to each other that there is no space for access or construction, or are too close that they have violated the building codes. The BIM system automatically detects and manages interferences which prevent possible delay or additional cost. The system could be set to run the check either the entire model or between certain parts of the model. 2.5.3 Construction Phasing (4D Simulation) Furthermore, one of the obvious BIM applications for improved time efficiency is construction planning. Hardin (2008) argued that the construction planning is one of the most important tasks and also one of the driving factors that determine the success of any projects. It is noted by Eastman et al (2008b) that Construction Planning and scheduling involves sequencing activities in space and time, procurement consideration, resources, spatial restrictions and etc. BIM is said to contribute in project planning solutions via the use of 4D simulation. Napier (2009) claimed that the conventional scheduling methods are labour intensive and is not easily understood by laypersons. BIM enables better communication and understanding how the schedule would impact site logistics as a result of the 4D construction phasing/planning tools that incorporate direct links to the design model, capturing spatial information which the traditional Gantt chart is unable to demonstrate. The 4D model incorpor ates time as added 4th dimension which enables the planner to visually plan and sequencing of construction activities with space and time consideration. Also, there might be specific materials and products selected from a potential range of refinements and substitutions that meet the project specification but may result in changes to some aspects of the design. As Neeley (2010) have stated, with the allowance of â€Å"what ifs†, a significant of cost, project risks and unnecessary waste could be saved by shifting the â€Å"try-and-error† process from construction site to the virtual environment on beforehand. Resource Allocation/Reducing Waste According to Egan (1998) in â€Å"Rethinking Construction†, within the construction industry almost 10% of materials are wasted and 30% of construction is rework. As mentioned by Articlesbased (2009) construction projects are very often planned based on resources availability as well as other external factors. With the 4D construction phasing/planning, the team members are able to understand the scope of work and the availability of various resources in order to optimize the resources and labour accordingly. In addition, Eastman (2008b) highlights that BIM is also accurate in providing the design model and material resources required for each segment of the work, it effectively assists in utilization of critical resources like labour, material and time during the building construction life cycle. With the improved monitoring of site logistics and the progress of project, the site management via BIM fosters just-in-time (JIT) of materials, plant/equipment and labours. Pre-fabrication Accuracy of design details are critical for determining the success of pre-fabrication, and a data-rich BIM model can have a positive impact and provide greater confidence on pre-fabrication. As BIM brings clarity towards a complex project, more contractors appreciate that BIM offers the advantage of effective coordination as the complexity level of project increases. The â€Å"Design to Build and Build to Design† concept improves accuracy for estimation and design specification for prefabricated elements thus reducing unnecessary wastage (BIMJOURNAL 2009). With greater confidence in the coordination process, many contractors are approaching more prefabrication options to help ease schedules. (BIM Smart Report, 2009) 2.5.4 Cost Estimates/schedule management From the costing aspect, Jernigan (2008) stated one of the main benefits provided by BIM is the accuracy in cost estimate during earlier stages. Conventionally, estimators have been relying on Excel spreadsheet to carry out their construction cost estimating (Autodesk, 2007), Eastman (2009b) then revealed that BIM include features for extraction and quantification of BIM component properties. By using a building information model instead of drawings; the takeoffs, counts, and measurements can be generated directly from the underlying model and the information can be linked to generate bills of materials, size and area estimations along with other related estimating information. Therefore the information is always consistent with the design and reduces the potential for human error or misunderstanding (Autodesk, 2007). This contributes to substantial time and cost saving as well as ensuring good quality of the BOQ. BIM offers the opportunity to develop more accurate cost estimates bas ed on actual elements (Hartman and Fischer 2008). Moreover, the linked cost information evolves in step with the design changes (Ashcraft, 2008). In addition, an indirect advantage that BIM could offered is the estimator would be given more extra time to bring in more value engineering, more time for risk evaluation and to more time to find any additional cost savings as the â€Å"technology† has taken up most of the grunt work from the estimator (Hague, No date).Using cost attributing features of the model to assess alternative design and construction schemes to enhance and improve the value engineering process; BIM certainly contributes in supporting the Contractor to present value for money to the Client. Neeley (2010) has claimed that the use of BIM and IPD (Integrated Project Delivery) is reducing project costs around 10%- 20% below construction costs compared to non BIM/IPD projects. 2.6 Case Studies No 1: One Island East, Hong Kong One of the popular examples of the actual Building Information Modeling Project that has been mentioned by various Authors in their research is One Island East Office Tower in Hong Kong which was developed by Swire Properties Limited. Together with the project BIM consultant, Gehry Technologies (GT) they began the process of working together to create a single, 3D electronic Building Information Model (Riese, 2006). The Project Details are summarized as follow: 2.6.1 Background Information The One Island East is a 308 meter high skyscraper with 59 stories of office space and two basement levels. The building has 70 floors in total which comprise of a sky lobby on 37th and 38th floors (Elkem Microsilika, 2009). It was Swires intention to achieve a high-quality design while improving construction time as well as cost savings by the use of collaborative, collocated work methods and integrated 3-D modeling tools. The initial objective was to save 10 percent on the cost with reduced time for construction (Shelden et al, 2008). The software tool chosen to create the BIM for this project is â€Å"Digital Project† with some of the benefits stated as follows: (Riese, 2006) Has automated clash detection and management Has a complete ME system routing tool. With built-in scripting function, enabling project requirements to be integrated for customization. Automated simultaneous file versioning and file sharing. Able to handle and manipulate large amounts of data Integrated with Primavera scheduling software with high interoperability 2.6.2 BIM Implementation (Pre-tender stage) BIM commenced after the schematic design phase. The office building has been pre-designed virtually using Digital Project by assembling up to 300.000 building components in a single master file. Almost all coordination issues were resolved using BIM. The design team, BIM consultant and Project Manager worked in one room for the first year. They also communicate with each other via a portal site for the BIM process. The DP software was capable of identifying geometric clashes and generates a list automatically. There were already several clashes and errors identified and resolved before tendering and construction. The DP tool also measured most of the quantities automatically which reduced the time and effort compared to manual take off. Also, the quantities were linked to the BIM which automatically updates when changes were made. 2.6.3 BIM Implementation (Tendering Stage) The model was provided to all tenderers which enabled them to have confirmation on the bill of quantities using the model without having to measure the quantities manually. As a result, tender process improved significantly with lower cost estimates and more accurate quantity takeoffs. 2.6.4 BIM Implementation (Post Tender Stage) Gammon Construction Limited, which was the contractor awarded for the project had full responsibility for the BIM model and began the development of highly accurate and detailed 3D BIM model for construction, ensuring that all 2D information would be firstly scrutinize in the 3D prototype before it went to the site. 2.6.5 BIM Implementation (Construction) During the construction period, the BIM model became the main visualization tool for the coordination of various project elements. There were full time modelers that assisted with the clashes identification and coordination issues where the design solutions were then incorporated into the model. A few subcontractors also participated in modeling their parts of work. 4D simulation was one of the main factors for the success of the OIE project. It was used extensively for improving construction sequence and managing risk. 2.6.6 Outcome There were more than 2000 clashes and errors were identified prior to bidding and construction stage, which resulted significant cost savings. The figure below is an example of a clash that has been detected between an electrical cable tra y and an air supply duct. Without BIM it wouldnt have been detected until the actual construction taken place which might potentially cause additional cost and time to the project. According to Shen et al.(2009), the geometric coordination off the design prior to construction is thought to achieve 10% cost savings whilst construction process modeling is thought to contribute further 20% cost savings on the construction. Gammon Construction has also reported that Construction Process Modeling saved the project at least 20 days. This project was awarded the American Institute of Architects 2008 BIM award for design/delivery process innovation. 2.7 Implementing BIM and the Potential Challenges From section 2.2 above it is demonstrated that BIM has brought numerous advantages and benefits to the industry. However there are also challenges and barriers that to be overcome before the full capability of BIM could be demonstrated and subsequently fully â€Å"enjoyed† by the industry stakeholders (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). In the very traditional and fragmented building industry, new technologies are not easily introduced. It should be noted that when a new technology is introduced, there will be a certain period of time in which the claims about the potential of the technology needs to be examined, tested and verified particularly the AEC industry which is known for the very long adoption periods of promising technologies (May et al. 2005; Salazar et al. 2006). Even though the technology of BIM is readily available and rapidly maturing but the adoption of BIM is much slower than anticipated (Fischer Kunz, 2006). Gillis (2008) made the criticism indicating that UK appears to be a more conservative and over protective country that demands proven effectiveness before considering adoption of new technology whilst Counties such as Norway, Sweden, and US attempts to proceed with new technology without 100% confirmation (Simon Gillis, 2008). As criticised by Prather (2007), most of the time, our professional would take the â€Å"wait-and-see† approach towards BIM. This is echoed by Safe software (2008) stating that our industry would mostly accept BIM only when the risk level has dropped and a clear return on investment is made known to the industry. Moreover, in these recessionary times, the money to spend on technology has got to have a good business case. The current UK industry inhibitors include contracts that has not promote working in collaboration, no external incentive for innovation, no motivation for parties to seek ways to deliver a better or quicker product and etc (Steve Dunwell, 2008). 2.7.1 Installation and operation Cost Eastman (2009) has highlighted one of the barriers to adopting BIM is the cost associated with the implementation. It is said that implementing new technology like BIM requires additional cost in respect of purchasing new software and hardware packages, training as well as changing the work processes and workflows. Also, if there are no technical expertises available within the organization, there will be a need to engage with external consultants to train employees prior to applying BIM within the organization which accounts for additional cost as well (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). Corresponding to what Eastman (2009) as well as Furneaux Kivits (2008) have said, a research done by Suermann et al. (2009) revealed that the whole installation of BIM for an organization is a costly plan when done at on one occasion, and even greater when done for several installations simultaneously for different projects. In addition, Suermann et al (2009) findings showed that there has been company which have had to increase their effort and cost allowance to do BIM due to the high learning curve. Apart from that, there is also an implication for procurement policy where consideration needs to be given to the additional funding for the development of BIM models in the first instance. The large size of BIM files will involve a different system for data sharing i.e. real time access to the BIM database between firms which are geographically distant and high speed internet connectivity will be essential (Kiviniemi et al., 2008 p.64). This would constitute extra cost for the operation of BIM. Furthermore, in order to reduce the risk of data corruption, sabotage, and loss; it is important to pay any indispensable cost associated to ensure data stability and security. 2.7.2 Embracing BIM throughout the entire supply chain Another apparent factor that has caused BIM taking the back seat is lack of commitment from the higher level of the supply chain. According to Oberle (2009), the transition to BIM requires support and commitment throughout the supply chain from top to down of an organization. In addition, The Crawley Schools PFI project in West Sussex has revealed the benefits which they have gained with the implementation of BIM but simultaneously also addressed one of their main barriers in implementing BIM was the reluctance of the supply chain in embracing this new technology, stating that some conservative individuals did not believe the benefits that BIM could offer thus were hesitant to undertake this new approach (Constructing Excellence, 2010). It is also noted that some Contractors that have too much existing workload might give the excuse that they dont have enough time to try out new technology. As quoted from Dunwell (2009), â€Å"Old habits die hard†. Most workers are reluctant to step out from their comfort zone and believed that their current handling approaches towards Building Information Modelling (BIM) Building Information Modelling (BIM) 2.1 Introduction As expressed in the Egan report (1998), the UK construction industry is a significant contributor to the domestic economy in the UK that it is simply too important to be overlooked. The construction process and its success are influenced by various factors and choosing the most effective investment to improve the construction process is a very important decision. Building Information Modelling has been said to represent a paradigm that will have comprehensive benefits brought to the construction industry (Eastman, 2009b). Popov et al. (2010) claimed that the growing diversity of disciplines, professionals, tasks, events in respect of the management during design and construction stages of projects, plus the more competitive cost and more intense deadlines with higher quality expectations as well as the need for enhancing technology are the driving force of information modelling in the construction industry. Building Information Modelling, or better known as BIM is not; strictly speaking a new technology as it has been developing and used by other industry sectors since 1950s i.e. the automotive and aero plane industries. These industries have been way ahead of the AEC industry as for the past 20 years, fully utilizing the available technology for their industries (Augustsson, 2007). Subsequently, this literature review will assess and evaluate the historic and current information in respect of Building Information Modelling to enable an understanding on the past development of BIM, the benefits that it could offer to our construction projects as well as identifying the barriers entailing for the full adoption of BIM among the contractors in the UK construction industry. 2.2 What is BIM? As defined by BIMForum:- â€Å"A building information model (BIM) is an object-oriented building development tool that utilizes 5-D modeling concepts, information technology and software interoperability to design, construct and operate a building project, as well as communicate its details† (BIMForum, 2007). One common understanding to describe BIM is the building development tool that creates a three dimensional (3D) geometric model with computer softwares. The model then can be used to assist the design, construction and operational process and also acting as a communication tool (BIMForum 2007). Nevertheless a 3D geometric model wouldnt be sufficient to answer the demanding construction requirements at present. A BIM model contains a high level of intelligence which not just limited to a three-dimensional geometric representation of the building, (GSA, 2007) but also includes 5D modelling where the 4th dimension is referring to time element whilst the 5th dimension is referring to cost. In addition, as indicated by BIMForum (2007), there might be further development that is inclusive of procurement application which is the 6D as well as the operational applications which is the 7D. In general, a building information model is a digital representation, â€Å"virtual† representati on of all the physical and functional characteristic of a building which also acts as a resource of information storage for the building which could be shared/used from the inception period and throughout the lifecycle of the building. 2.3 The past development and revolution of BIM Conventionally, constructing a building was merely the responsibility of the Architects and the Engineers, designing on papers and then the Contractors build it. Cyon Research (2003) stated that Construction projects have always been defined by various drawings and documents where at times might be in conflict with each other thus showing inconsistency. These inconsistencies are the typical issues that often aroused when the documents and drawings are maintained separately with different participants working on different or superseded documents. There will always be unanticipated field costs, delays and eventual lawsuits between various parties within a project team as a result of errors and omissions in paper based communication. According to Vinod Kumar (2009), the beginning of orthographic drawings and perspectives can be traced back as far as during the Renaissance era when Filippo Brunelleschi represented the plans in drawing format for Santa Maria del Fiore in Italy in order for the patrons to understand how the building would look like. Vinod Kumar (2009) further explains the evolution of systematic documentation from manual methods all the way till our presently available technology by dividing it into three phases: I phase Till early 1980s: Before 1980s the traditional way of creating design documents are through manually drawn lines representing building i.e. plans, sections, elevations and etc. II phase 1980s to Late 1990s: This was the period where major change took place from manual drafting towards computer aided drafting when computers were firstly introduce. There is more elaborated information as the complexity of buildings increased as well as more specialization in the design and construction process. Use of computers, especially for 2D drawings and reports are ground-breaking changes into the systematic Documentation. III phase Beginning of the 2K: With the buildings degree of complexity presently, the number of parties involved in the process of drawing production has also increased. In line with the development of technology there are also more introduction of more interrelated and integrated building system i.e. HVAC system, energy requirement and etc. The computer based technology has also been constantly updated to reduce errors that occur but nonetheless they are still merely the collections of manually created, non-intelligent lines and text. The diagram below shows the evolution from manual methods all the way till the introduction of new technologies. A previous study by Autodesk (2002) which correlates with Vinods statement, mentioned that in the early 1980s the Construction industry took one step forward when the architects began using PC based Computer Aided Design, CAD. It is said that the CAD system was adapted with ease by the Industry as it was initiated from the pin-bar drafting which the Industry was familiar with. Thus many construction documents and drawings were completed using CADD rather than being drafted manually on drawing boards. DWS files were then exchanged in replacement of paper drawings, from simple graphics to the information content on the building. The CAD files developed significantly, communicating the information on the building which plotted drawing couldnt. Following that Holzer (2009) also stated that in the late 70s and early 80s, CAD systems like RUCAPS was used where it operated in parametric environment enabling 2D information extracted from a 3D model. RUCAPS allowed multi user access and put f orward a new way in generating, distributing as well as retrieving building information which was different fromt he common drafting processes. Unfortunately the down side of this system was the high cost and slow speed of the system as well as its inability of producing more complex geometrical shapes. Nevertheless, some of the fundamental concept of RUCAPS can be found in the current BIM software such as Autodesks REVIT, Bentleys TRIFORMA, Gehry Techs DIGITAL PROJECT and etc. Nowadays, the use of BIM is very common within the manufacturing and aerospace industries where new products or product changes are modelled virtually for the assessment of design, performance and production. . We are also in the process of experiencing a similar revolution in the construction industry. BIM and other related technologies have emerged since the past decade and developing up till the present where they have been acknowledge as the platform for the design and construction of various projects (Shen, et.al, 2009). Nevertheless, FWCI (2009) argued that it is important to understand that BIM is not CAD+ or the â€Å"Son† of CAD as BIM functions in its own approach and discipline. BIM, acting as a single source entry for project team involves the process of generating, storing, managing, exchanging and sharing building information in an interoperable and reusable way. Generally a BIM system is a tool that enables users to integrate and reuse building information and domain knowledge through the lifecycle of a building Presently there are numerous BIM products on the market by various vendors. Autodesk Revit was considered as one of the leading BIM creation tools. Bentley Systems, Graphisoft, Vico software and Nementcheck are also currently very well-known in the market. They each provide various building model tools to design a building (Rosenberg 2006). With this technology, the information needed for a projects design, construction and operation are contained in a model digitally which is centralized and could be shared across all associated project stakeholders (COBRA, 2008). 2.4 Various understanding of BIM in the Industry At present there is a vast amount of information that is available in respect to the definition of premise of BIM. Holzer (2007) explained that even though the application of BIM becomes more accepted and common throughout the industry, but there has been a problem in agreeing the definition of BIM. The common definitions would be described as a method for project information management with the combination of non-geometry attributes with geometrical entities, or defined mostly by pointing out its capabilities for cost-control and to facilities management. Holzer (2007) continues to claim that because the term BIM is often used by vendors for their marketing strategies in order to promote their company software, the definition of BIM technology has become very confusing. On the other hand, Eastman et al (2008) has suggested that in order to deal with this confusion it is useful to describe modelling solutions that do not utilize BIM technology. This includes tools that create models containing only 3D data with no object attributes, models that do not utilize parametric intelligence, models composed of multiple 2D CAD reference files that must be combined to define the building as well as models that allow changes to dimensions in one view that are not automatically reflected in other views. Furthermore, another popular â€Å"talk about† issue within the industry is the multi dimension product models, the ability of BIM to provide multi dimensional application. (GSA 2007) has stated that 4D models represent 3D models plus time which include project phasing, construction scheduling whilst 5D models incorporate the costs elements. Nonetheless, Lee (2005) has identified the additional numbering of the dimension as â€Å"nD† modelling. Lee stated that nD modelling is an extension of the building information model that incorporates multi-aspects of design information required at each stage of the lifecycle of a building facility. On the other hand, in the year 2006, The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) also published â€Å"The Contractors Guide to BIM† which touched on the issue in respect of the continuing usage of the numbering i.e. 6D, 7D, and etc has therefore acknowledged the extended application of the 3D tool as â€Å"XD† (AGC , 2006). This research is mainly focusing on the 3D models with incorporation of time (4D) and cost (5D) elements. 2.5 Benefits of BIM There are many obvious benefits that BIM could offer to various parties including the owners, planners, engineers, estimators, designers and etc. It is understood that different stakeholders would value BIM differently. They may share the same information but have different responsibilities and uses on the model. From a Contractors perspective, BIM brings essential value for enabling virtual construction of the structure within a single source file (Hardin, 2009). As quoted from the BIM 2009 Smart Report, â€Å"A model is Worth a Thousand Drawings†. Contractors are making use of the intelligent model for assisting them with various activities i.e. planning construction sequences, cost estimations and bidding, conflict resolution and visualization project demonstration for client and etc (Neeley, 2010). The incorporation of intelligent data improves the models construction and post-construction realities, which also enables the contractor to get closer to the world of the desig ner (Sage software 2008). The initial literature review has showed that costs are significantly reduced, time is saved and the quality improved. 2.5.1 Single source Model In conventional process, the Project Manager reviews the updated drawings and reflects any changes onto the schedule as the design progress. Many times the same information is entered into different program. Every repetition increases the probability of inconsistency and error occurrence. BIM on the other hand allow direct changes applied to the single model. As both designers and contractors have access to the model simultaneously, this corresponding process also enables them to reduce lead times which normally take place throughout the period of sending back-and-forth the documents. The collaborative environment contributes to a substantial time saving during pre construction. Extra coordination checks are also unnecessary because the information generated from the model will lead to fewer errors on site which normally is caused by inaccurate and uncoordinated information. In the case of any last minute design changes, addendums, clarifications and etc it could be altered and updat ed to the model automatically across the project team, from early design through completion (Hardin, 2009). These ensure that all parties are working with the latest information. With all the information contained within the BIM database it will definitely increase the efficiency between the Architect, Engineer as well as the Contractors. 2.5.2 The 3D Visualization Clash Detection The 3D visualisation capability of BIM models can be of great benefit as a means of testifying the workability and demonstrating aspects of the construction itself such as construction sequencing, logistics, access, storage and security (C3 System 2009). BIM allows for â€Å"building twice† which offers various benefits like improvement in Constructability, maintainability, cost estimate accuracy and etc. This reduces ambiguities before commencement of actual construction (Robert, 2005). The construction issues for layperson or non layperson are also made easier to understand as the 3D visualisation helps them to understand any constraints that the client had not made clear earlier, or were misunderstood (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). One of the major benefits which BIM could provide for contractors is clash detection. As identified by FWIC (2009), a hard clash is where more than one object is being designed to occupy the same space whilst a soft clash is where the objects in the design is too close to each other that there is no space for access or construction, or are too close that they have violated the building codes. The BIM system automatically detects and manages interferences which prevent possible delay or additional cost. The system could be set to run the check either the entire model or between certain parts of the model. 2.5.3 Construction Phasing (4D Simulation) Furthermore, one of the obvious BIM applications for improved time efficiency is construction planning. Hardin (2008) argued that the construction planning is one of the most important tasks and also one of the driving factors that determine the success of any projects. It is noted by Eastman et al (2008b) that Construction Planning and scheduling involves sequencing activities in space and time, procurement consideration, resources, spatial restrictions and etc. BIM is said to contribute in project planning solutions via the use of 4D simulation. Napier (2009) claimed that the conventional scheduling methods are labour intensive and is not easily understood by laypersons. BIM enables better communication and understanding how the schedule would impact site logistics as a result of the 4D construction phasing/planning tools that incorporate direct links to the design model, capturing spatial information which the traditional Gantt chart is unable to demonstrate. The 4D model incorpor ates time as added 4th dimension which enables the planner to visually plan and sequencing of construction activities with space and time consideration. Also, there might be specific materials and products selected from a potential range of refinements and substitutions that meet the project specification but may result in changes to some aspects of the design. As Neeley (2010) have stated, with the allowance of â€Å"what ifs†, a significant of cost, project risks and unnecessary waste could be saved by shifting the â€Å"try-and-error† process from construction site to the virtual environment on beforehand. Resource Allocation/Reducing Waste According to Egan (1998) in â€Å"Rethinking Construction†, within the construction industry almost 10% of materials are wasted and 30% of construction is rework. As mentioned by Articlesbased (2009) construction projects are very often planned based on resources availability as well as other external factors. With the 4D construction phasing/planning, the team members are able to understand the scope of work and the availability of various resources in order to optimize the resources and labour accordingly. In addition, Eastman (2008b) highlights that BIM is also accurate in providing the design model and material resources required for each segment of the work, it effectively assists in utilization of critical resources like labour, material and time during the building construction life cycle. With the improved monitoring of site logistics and the progress of project, the site management via BIM fosters just-in-time (JIT) of materials, plant/equipment and labours. Pre-fabrication Accuracy of design details are critical for determining the success of pre-fabrication, and a data-rich BIM model can have a positive impact and provide greater confidence on pre-fabrication. As BIM brings clarity towards a complex project, more contractors appreciate that BIM offers the advantage of effective coordination as the complexity level of project increases. The â€Å"Design to Build and Build to Design† concept improves accuracy for estimation and design specification for prefabricated elements thus reducing unnecessary wastage (BIMJOURNAL 2009). With greater confidence in the coordination process, many contractors are approaching more prefabrication options to help ease schedules. (BIM Smart Report, 2009) 2.5.4 Cost Estimates/schedule management From the costing aspect, Jernigan (2008) stated one of the main benefits provided by BIM is the accuracy in cost estimate during earlier stages. Conventionally, estimators have been relying on Excel spreadsheet to carry out their construction cost estimating (Autodesk, 2007), Eastman (2009b) then revealed that BIM include features for extraction and quantification of BIM component properties. By using a building information model instead of drawings; the takeoffs, counts, and measurements can be generated directly from the underlying model and the information can be linked to generate bills of materials, size and area estimations along with other related estimating information. Therefore the information is always consistent with the design and reduces the potential for human error or misunderstanding (Autodesk, 2007). This contributes to substantial time and cost saving as well as ensuring good quality of the BOQ. BIM offers the opportunity to develop more accurate cost estimates bas ed on actual elements (Hartman and Fischer 2008). Moreover, the linked cost information evolves in step with the design changes (Ashcraft, 2008). In addition, an indirect advantage that BIM could offered is the estimator would be given more extra time to bring in more value engineering, more time for risk evaluation and to more time to find any additional cost savings as the â€Å"technology† has taken up most of the grunt work from the estimator (Hague, No date).Using cost attributing features of the model to assess alternative design and construction schemes to enhance and improve the value engineering process; BIM certainly contributes in supporting the Contractor to present value for money to the Client. Neeley (2010) has claimed that the use of BIM and IPD (Integrated Project Delivery) is reducing project costs around 10%- 20% below construction costs compared to non BIM/IPD projects. 2.6 Case Studies No 1: One Island East, Hong Kong One of the popular examples of the actual Building Information Modeling Project that has been mentioned by various Authors in their research is One Island East Office Tower in Hong Kong which was developed by Swire Properties Limited. Together with the project BIM consultant, Gehry Technologies (GT) they began the process of working together to create a single, 3D electronic Building Information Model (Riese, 2006). The Project Details are summarized as follow: 2.6.1 Background Information The One Island East is a 308 meter high skyscraper with 59 stories of office space and two basement levels. The building has 70 floors in total which comprise of a sky lobby on 37th and 38th floors (Elkem Microsilika, 2009). It was Swires intention to achieve a high-quality design while improving construction time as well as cost savings by the use of collaborative, collocated work methods and integrated 3-D modeling tools. The initial objective was to save 10 percent on the cost with reduced time for construction (Shelden et al, 2008). The software tool chosen to create the BIM for this project is â€Å"Digital Project† with some of the benefits stated as follows: (Riese, 2006) Has automated clash detection and management Has a complete ME system routing tool. With built-in scripting function, enabling project requirements to be integrated for customization. Automated simultaneous file versioning and file sharing. Able to handle and manipulate large amounts of data Integrated with Primavera scheduling software with high interoperability 2.6.2 BIM Implementation (Pre-tender stage) BIM commenced after the schematic design phase. The office building has been pre-designed virtually using Digital Project by assembling up to 300.000 building components in a single master file. Almost all coordination issues were resolved using BIM. The design team, BIM consultant and Project Manager worked in one room for the first year. They also communicate with each other via a portal site for the BIM process. The DP software was capable of identifying geometric clashes and generates a list automatically. There were already several clashes and errors identified and resolved before tendering and construction. The DP tool also measured most of the quantities automatically which reduced the time and effort compared to manual take off. Also, the quantities were linked to the BIM which automatically updates when changes were made. 2.6.3 BIM Implementation (Tendering Stage) The model was provided to all tenderers which enabled them to have confirmation on the bill of quantities using the model without having to measure the quantities manually. As a result, tender process improved significantly with lower cost estimates and more accurate quantity takeoffs. 2.6.4 BIM Implementation (Post Tender Stage) Gammon Construction Limited, which was the contractor awarded for the project had full responsibility for the BIM model and began the development of highly accurate and detailed 3D BIM model for construction, ensuring that all 2D information would be firstly scrutinize in the 3D prototype before it went to the site. 2.6.5 BIM Implementation (Construction) During the construction period, the BIM model became the main visualization tool for the coordination of various project elements. There were full time modelers that assisted with the clashes identification and coordination issues where the design solutions were then incorporated into the model. A few subcontractors also participated in modeling their parts of work. 4D simulation was one of the main factors for the success of the OIE project. It was used extensively for improving construction sequence and managing risk. 2.6.6 Outcome There were more than 2000 clashes and errors were identified prior to bidding and construction stage, which resulted significant cost savings. The figure below is an example of a clash that has been detected between an electrical cable tra y and an air supply duct. Without BIM it wouldnt have been detected until the actual construction taken place which might potentially cause additional cost and time to the project. According to Shen et al.(2009), the geometric coordination off the design prior to construction is thought to achieve 10% cost savings whilst construction process modeling is thought to contribute further 20% cost savings on the construction. Gammon Construction has also reported that Construction Process Modeling saved the project at least 20 days. This project was awarded the American Institute of Architects 2008 BIM award for design/delivery process innovation. 2.7 Implementing BIM and the Potential Challenges From section 2.2 above it is demonstrated that BIM has brought numerous advantages and benefits to the industry. However there are also challenges and barriers that to be overcome before the full capability of BIM could be demonstrated and subsequently fully â€Å"enjoyed† by the industry stakeholders (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). In the very traditional and fragmented building industry, new technologies are not easily introduced. It should be noted that when a new technology is introduced, there will be a certain period of time in which the claims about the potential of the technology needs to be examined, tested and verified particularly the AEC industry which is known for the very long adoption periods of promising technologies (May et al. 2005; Salazar et al. 2006). Even though the technology of BIM is readily available and rapidly maturing but the adoption of BIM is much slower than anticipated (Fischer Kunz, 2006). Gillis (2008) made the criticism indicating that UK appears to be a more conservative and over protective country that demands proven effectiveness before considering adoption of new technology whilst Counties such as Norway, Sweden, and US attempts to proceed with new technology without 100% confirmation (Simon Gillis, 2008). As criticised by Prather (2007), most of the time, our professional would take the â€Å"wait-and-see† approach towards BIM. This is echoed by Safe software (2008) stating that our industry would mostly accept BIM only when the risk level has dropped and a clear return on investment is made known to the industry. Moreover, in these recessionary times, the money to spend on technology has got to have a good business case. The current UK industry inhibitors include contracts that has not promote working in collaboration, no external incentive for innovation, no motivation for parties to seek ways to deliver a better or quicker product and etc (Steve Dunwell, 2008). 2.7.1 Installation and operation Cost Eastman (2009) has highlighted one of the barriers to adopting BIM is the cost associated with the implementation. It is said that implementing new technology like BIM requires additional cost in respect of purchasing new software and hardware packages, training as well as changing the work processes and workflows. Also, if there are no technical expertises available within the organization, there will be a need to engage with external consultants to train employees prior to applying BIM within the organization which accounts for additional cost as well (Furneaux and Kivits 2008). Corresponding to what Eastman (2009) as well as Furneaux Kivits (2008) have said, a research done by Suermann et al. (2009) revealed that the whole installation of BIM for an organization is a costly plan when done at on one occasion, and even greater when done for several installations simultaneously for different projects. In addition, Suermann et al (2009) findings showed that there has been company which have had to increase their effort and cost allowance to do BIM due to the high learning curve. Apart from that, there is also an implication for procurement policy where consideration needs to be given to the additional funding for the development of BIM models in the first instance. The large size of BIM files will involve a different system for data sharing i.e. real time access to the BIM database between firms which are geographically distant and high speed internet connectivity will be essential (Kiviniemi et al., 2008 p.64). This would constitute extra cost for the operation of BIM. Furthermore, in order to reduce the risk of data corruption, sabotage, and loss; it is important to pay any indispensable cost associated to ensure data stability and security. 2.7.2 Embracing BIM throughout the entire supply chain Another apparent factor that has caused BIM taking the back seat is lack of commitment from the higher level of the supply chain. According to Oberle (2009), the transition to BIM requires support and commitment throughout the supply chain from top to down of an organization. In addition, The Crawley Schools PFI project in West Sussex has revealed the benefits which they have gained with the implementation of BIM but simultaneously also addressed one of their main barriers in implementing BIM was the reluctance of the supply chain in embracing this new technology, stating that some conservative individuals did not believe the benefits that BIM could offer thus were hesitant to undertake this new approach (Constructing Excellence, 2010). It is also noted that some Contractors that have too much existing workload might give the excuse that they dont have enough time to try out new technology. As quoted from Dunwell (2009), â€Å"Old habits die hard†. Most workers are reluctant to step out from their comfort zone and believed that their current handling approaches towards

Detailed CT

COST TABLES (CT): this is a cost management tool used to compare between different suppliers and their costs and an organization's production cost with that of an external organisation. (Yoshikaw, Innes and Mitchell, 1990) gave an analysis of the uses and diversity of CT. CT could be summarized or detailed. The detailed CT are done by advance Technology,' analysing' and comparing the' what if's'. The outcome of the analysis concludes a ‘make' or ‘buy' decision. This takes place within the VSC –(the powerhouse for decision making in the chain to enable it access cost of suppliers). COST SPLIT-UP – (CSU): This can also be referred to as cost analysis. Organizations making use of CSU build trust within themselves (the configurator and the partners). This model enables the supplier to make cost calculations based on the buyer's specification. The buyer gets insight into the breakdown of the cost at each stage of activity. In reference to (Bromwich, 1989), cost analysis is an essential component of SMA and IOMA. CSU is used more by organizations already implementing Porter's 1985 low cost strategy. STRATEGIC COSTING – (SC) AND VALUE CHAIN COSTING – (VCC): According to Shank and Govindarajan, (Guilding, Gravens and Tayles, 2000) is used to ascertain how strategically attractive an organization stands in the future. Strategic and market information are the main source of data to be analyzed. The use of Value Chain Costing is for the back- up activities – (design R&D, HRM) and core activities – (logistics, production, market and services) are attached a cost. STRATEGIC PRICING – (SP): Referencing (Guilding, Cravens and Tayles, 2000), the initiators of SP, determiners like opinions on competitors' prices and price elasticity, market growth economy of scale and experience are all appraised. This model is connected to markets and revenue. TARGET COST – (TC): according to (Ellram, 2002) in (Miguel, Martinez and Ramos, 2004), TC should include the production and procurement expenses incurred in a product or service. This cost can be broken down into cost of production, operating cost (marketing, sales R;D) and purchases cost. TC has three main points of focus: estimation of selling/service price based on the product attribute, calculation of TC based on targeted profit and establishing a previous TC. VALUE ANALYSIS – (VA): this has to do with the customer and customer value. This process describes the transformation of cost to revenue, reflecting what the customer is willing to pay for a value. According to (Ellram, 1996), organizations need not acquire cost for values a customer does not crave for. (CIMA, 1996, p.34) – An evaluation of determinants influencing the cost of a product with a mindset of creating valve at a minimum cost with focus on reliability and quality as features.

Endgame

Endgame The Hegelian definition of tragedy is defined as good intentions will collide in a finite area where those good intentions will develop a tragedy. Beckett’s Endgame can be included within the definition of the Hegelian tragedy. Both main characters in the play had good intentions, but were formed through obligations. These good intentions through obligation made the novel suitable to be a Hegelian tragedy. The characters good intentions were shown throughout the play. Both Hamm and Clove depended on each other to survive. They were both afraid to leave each other and be left alone.Clove admits that Hamm became a father figure to him and he once loved him but not anymore, but he has nowhere else to go. Also Hamm points out that Clove stays with him out of compassion. Nagg depends mostly on his wife, Nell. He would only wake up from his garbage bins to tell the same story to his wife and attempt to give her a kiss. However Nell dependency is the past. Nell in the play re presents life where in this type of story it is unlikely to see. The script and the film made Hamm’s parents look more childlike and pet like.The play had several themes, which consist of emptiness, loneliness, and the overall nature of beginnings and endings in other words- life and death. The repeated lines such as â€Å"finished† and â€Å"zero† represents Hamm, the protagonist, wanting to welcome in death but he is too scare to finish the â€Å"endgame†. The script made me think the characters were trapped in this small dark hole full of nothingness, which emphasizes the emptiness of the play. However, in the film there was light coming from the two windows. Outside the windows, there is â€Å"zero† nature, which also helps to illustrate the emptiness of play.Another example of emptiness being represented in the play, is that there was absolutely no sound coming from the outside or inside in the film, except for the character’s voices. T he killing of the rat and flea demonstrates the beginnings and endings of the play. Hamm told Clove to kill the flea because he is afraid of the rebirth of humanity. The stage directions in the script represent Hamm and Clove’s fear of escaping. In the film, when Hamm directs Clove to move him back to the center of the room after being pushed around the room, is one example of Hamm’s fear of escaping the room.Another example is Clove’s failed attempts to leave the room to go to the kitchen. In the film, it showed Clove’s many hesitations before leaving the room. Even though the characters had good intentions to help each other survive the â€Å"endgame†, the tragic flaws were overpowering. Nagg mentions in the play that since birth Hamm has always being afraid of loneliness. Clove finally had courage to escape but eventually returns because he didn’t have enough courage to end one thing and start a new beginning somewhere else. Hegelian trag edy suited the Endgame because the characters good intentions collided in this finite dark hole.