Modular construction is a novel technique that has several advantages over traditional construction methods; however, along with the benefits, there are limitations that make it challenging. Various aspects of modular construction need to be studied in-depth to improve the construction process, and the aim of this study was to accomplish that by investigating its advantages and limitations and comparing them with traditional construction. The advantages were identified through a thorough literature review, and were classified into five categories: project schedule, project cost, labor safety, project quality and productivity, and environmental. The limitations were also investigated through the existing literature and classified into five categories: project planning, transportation, public and expert acceptance, establishment cost and cost due to complexity, and coordination. The results revealed that the advantages of modular construction outnumber its limitations; however, further technological development and research would lessen or mitigate the challenges. The results of this study highlight the main benefits and challenges associated with modular construction and will help project stakeholders choose between this method and conventional construction methods for their projects.
Highway and bridge construction projects are subject to cost and schedule overruns, as well as workforce shortages in remote locations, both of which can result in disputes over the quality of the end product. E-ticketing technology can improve the quality, however, while decreasing cost overruns and schedule delays. Despite the benefits of E-ticketing, many state departments and agencies are unwilling to transition into this technology. This study aims to identify the potential barriers to implementing E-ticketing, determine the adoption rate of state agencies/departments, and evaluate the benefits of employing an E-ticketing platform. The changes in technological trends in highway construction that are related to material tracking, inspection, and digitization are qualitatively analyzed, using meta-synthesis and interpretative analytical techniques. Key technologies that have the potential to be integrated into the E-ticketing platform to mitigate the limitations faced at the time of implementation are also discussed. The study’s findings suggest that the implementation process and regulations of an E-ticketing platform vary drastically from state to state, and a common set of guidelines is essential for obtaining long term success. The study advocates four key recommendations for widespread implementation of the E-ticketing platform and suggests directions for further research. The results of this study will assist DOT’s decision-makers and engineers in developing a common E-ticketing platform, adopting policies and guidelines, decreasing the costs of their projects, providing the initial investment, running pilot tests, enhancing the safety of their inspectors, and completing their projects in a timely and efficient manner.
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