Strategies for Improving Productivity in the Construction Industry: A Critical Analysis

Knowledge & Understanding:

MLO1 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the work-based practice through the analysis and evaluation of research-based theory and relevant case studies, by formulating solutions to the effectiveand efficient delivery of construction engineering projects. Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

MLO2 – Critically evaluate innovative approaches to product, process and services delivery in construction engineering through consideration of theory and practice. Personal Values Attributes:

MLO3 – Formulate strategies for improvement within the global construction engineering industry todemonstrate cultural, ethical and sustainable awareness.

Coursework Overview

The assessment requires you to consider a single existing problem related to poor productivity in the construction industry, relating to one of the 8 forms of lean waste. Once you have selected a single problem and can define the problem in relation to lean waste, you need to critically analyse the potential solutions formulated from the module and provide considered solutions to the problem, with clear links between the problem and the potential solutions.

Coursework Tasks to be Completed by Students You will produce an individual illustrated journal of no more than 6no. A3 pages (landscape) (Excluding front page, Content page and Reference List). The illustrated journal needs to include all of the following:

1. Select a single construction industry problem related to poor productivity and one of the 8 forms of lean waste discussed during the module, include a short description and a statement that clearly and concisely defines the scope of the problem in the boundaries of this module.
2. Justify (through good quality industry and academic literature) why this is a problem, who the problem affects, and the impact of the problem on a project/industry.
3. Critically analyse possible solutions to the problem from learning during this module AND independent research.
4. Create a visual illustration that links the problem to the solutions, i.e. fishbone diagram, mind map or another suitable visual tool.
5. Create a visual improvement model which summarises HOW the problem can be solved.
6. The illustrated journal should use an effective combination of text AND images to provide an interesting and visually engaging document. All images should be relevant and of an appropriate size and quality.

The Referral Attempt opportunity will generally take place after the end-of-level Progression and Awards Board (PAB). If you become eligible to complete a Referral Attempt but are subsequently unable to undertake the opportunity when required, you will be permitted to re-sit the module at the next scheduled sitting of the module assessment. This will typically entail the suspension of your progression on your programme of study until such time that you have completed the level and become eligible to proceed.

Guidance for Students on Policies for Assessment

The University has several policies for assessment. The following information, which is available to you from the link below, provides guidance on these policies, including relevant procedures and forms.

(1) Assessment Regulations and Policies

(a) Assessment Regulations for Taught Awards

(b) Group Work Assessments Policy

(c) Moderation Policy

(d) Retention of Assessed Work Policy

(e) Word Limits Policy

(2) Assessment Feedback

(a) Anonymous Marking Policy

(3) Late Submission of Work and Extension Requests

(4) Personal Extenuating Circumstances

(5) Technical Extenuating Circumstances

(6) Student Complaints and Appeals

(7) Academic Misconduct

(8) Student Disability and Unforeseen Medical Circumstances