Title: Scaled critical factor index for optimal resource allocation in service and lean construction

Authors: Alemu Moges Belay; Josu Takala; Rayko Toshev; Bjørn Andersen

Addresses: Department of Production Technology/Industrial Management, University of Vaasa, FI-65101, Vaasa, Finland ' Department of Production Technology/Industrial Management, University of Vaasa, FI-65101, Vaasa, Finland ' Department of Production Technology/Industrial Management, University of Vaasa, FI-65101, Vaasa, Finland ' Norwegian University of Science and Technology, S.P. Andersens veg 5, Trondheim, Norway

Abstract: Service and construction require large resource, thus there is a need for a comprehensive method for optimal resource allocation. The purpose of this study is to develop and use scaled critical factor index (SCFI) for sustainable resource allocations in a service provision company and a lean construction project. In this research, 160 questionnaires were distributed and the response rate was 48%. Different statistical process control charts were incorporated in the analysis to avoid subjective decisions. The pitfalls of the previous CFI model are explained and improved. The managers identified areas to be improved and developed an insight into how to balance the resources. Results were validated by plotting an implementation index versus relative importance and it was found that the results are in line with the literature. SCFI enables seeing the relative differences in resource allocation under all conditions and helps managers to allocate resource in a more sustainable way.

Keywords: scaled critical factor index; SCFI; services; lean construction; concurrent engineering; simultaneous engineering; sustainable resource allocation; customer satisfaction; sustainability; service providers; statistical process control; SPC; control charts.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSE.2013.054764

International Journal of Sustainable Economy, 2013 Vol.5 No.3, pp.286 - 306

Published online: 31 Mar 2014 *

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