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Using boundary objects to generate better value in the construction industry : interpreting cases from an activity theory perspective

Forgues, D

Authors

D Forgues



Contributors

L Koskela
Supervisor

Abstract

Value generation in construction is about meeting client requirements. Problems in
handling client requirements within fragmented practices in sequential design and
contractual arrangements are widely recognized. Some authors suggest reconfiguring
project coalitions around integrated teams to overcome this problem. Little is said,
however, about the impact of adopting this new form of work in traditional design
practice, processes and tools, and about possible socio-cognitive barriers that may
hinder the collaborative work of design professionals, clients and users. It is argued that
integrated teams is a new form of work that requires revisiting clients' and experts'
roles and relationships - rethinking existing design practices.
The aim of the research is to improve the ability of integrated teams to maximize value
generation. It builds on activity theory to investigate the dynamics of integrated teams in
construction. This theory explores how members of an activity system articulate and
achieve the activity purpose. Recent research in activity theory suggests the opportunity
to use boundary objects for breaking down socio-cognitive barriers in activities
involving a group of people coming from different practices - project coalitions - and
having different tools, language, rules and knowledge. Boundary objects are objects that
are shared across different problem-solving contexts, objects that work to establish a
shared context that "sits in the middle." It is contended that boundary objects can be
used to cross boundaries between these fragmented practices.
The objective of the research is to develop and test the use of boundary objects such as
requirement management tools in the context of integrated teams and organisations in
order to improve value generation. The research demonstrates the value of using
boundary objects for increasing the efficiency of project coalition in delivering better
value. They were successfully used first to break knowledge barriers between users and
design professionals for the design of a sustainable construction, second to improve
practices for managing a complex construction programme.

Citation

Forgues, D. Using boundary objects to generate better value in the construction industry : interpreting cases from an activity theory perspective. (Thesis). University of Salford

Thesis Type Thesis
Deposit Date Aug 17, 2021
Award Date May 1, 2008

This file is under embargo due to copyright reasons.

Contact Library-ThesesRequest@salford.ac.uk to request a copy for personal use.





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