In the ever-evolving world of construction, the importance of repair and maintenance cannot be overstated. These activities are not just about fixing what’s broken; they’re about extending the life of buildings, reducing costs, and improving overall quality. A recent study published in ‘Građevinar’ (which translates to ‘Civil Engineer’) sheds new light on how to approach these critical tasks more effectively. Led by Mohammad Kheradranjbar, the research introduces a novel method that could revolutionize how we think about building assessment for repair and maintenance.
The study, which leverages the Delphi method and extensive research literature, identifies key factors that influence the repair and maintenance of buildings. But what sets this research apart is its use of the DANP (DEMATEL based on Network Analysis Process) hybrid approach. This method doesn’t just consider individual factors; it delves into the complex interdependencies between them. “The advantage of this approach lies in giving proper consideration to the relatively complex interdependencies of factors affecting performance,” Kheradranjbar explains. This means that instead of looking at each factor in isolation, the DANP approach evaluates how each factor influences and is influenced by others, providing a more holistic view of the repair and maintenance process.
So, what does this mean for the construction industry, particularly for the energy sector? For starters, it means more efficient and effective maintenance strategies. By understanding the interdependencies between different factors, building managers can prioritize repairs and maintenance tasks more effectively, reducing downtime and operational costs. This is particularly crucial in the energy sector, where the reliability of infrastructure is paramount. Imagine a power plant where every component is optimized for longevity and efficiency—this is the kind of future that Kheradranjbar’s research could help shape.
The study also highlights the importance of multi-criteria decision-making. In the past, decisions about repair and maintenance were often based on a single criterion, such as cost or time. However, Kheradranjbar’s approach considers multiple criteria, including quality, productivity, and long-term goals. “Proper selection of these factors is a multi-criteria decision-making problem,” Kheradranjbar notes, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive approach.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As buildings become more complex and the demand for sustainable infrastructure grows, the ability to assess and prioritize repair and maintenance tasks will become increasingly important. Kheradranjbar’s work provides a roadmap for this, offering a method that is both scientifically rigorous and practically applicable. By understanding the basic characteristics of the repair and maintenance system and specifying the correlation and relationship between criteria, this research could shape future developments in the field, making buildings more resilient, efficient, and sustainable.
This groundbreaking research, published in ‘Građevinar’, offers a fresh perspective on an age-old problem. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the insights provided by Kheradranjbar and his team could pave the way for a new era of building assessment and maintenance.