BIM-based tools can contribute to addressing some of the challenges faced by structural engineering practitioners. A BIM-based framework for the development of components that deliver Automatic Code Compliance (ACC) is presented. The structural design problems that such components solve are categorised as simple, where ACC can be implemented directly, or complex, where more advanced approaches are needed. The mathematical process of Multi-Dimensional Data Fitting (MDDF) is introduced in order for the latter, enabling the compression of complex engineering calculations to a single equation that can be easily implemented into a BIM software engineering package. Proof-ofconcept examples are given for both cases: offsite manufactured structural joists are utilised as a nonrecursive example, implementing the results obtained in the manufacturer's literature; the axial capacity of metal fasteners in axially loaded timber-to-timber connections are utilised as an example of recursive problems. The MDDF analysis and the implementation in a BIM package of those problems are presented. Finally, the concept is generalised for non-structural aspects at a framework level, and the challenges, implications, and prospects of ACC in a BIM context are discussed.
Non‐sustainability of programmes and projects has become an overriding concern for the water supply and sanitation sector. Poor programme conceptualization, unimaginative planning, use of inappropriate technologies and rigid management approaches have contributed to high rates of programme failure. Five major water supply programmes undertaken during the UN Water Decade in the Western Sudan were analysed for their management approaches, appropriateness and sustainability. Results prompt the conclusion that sustainable projects need to adopt an adaptive and flexible management approach and to employ a conceptual framework which emphasizes community management, the empowerment of women, selection of appropriate low cost technologies, built in operation and maintenance strategies, cost recovery and institutional support to government.
Increasingly, emphasis is being placed upon effective human resources development (H RD) as the most important contributor to program sustainability in the rural water and sanitation sector. HRD is a process involving the facilitating agency, the program beneficiaries, and the local government sector development planning agencies. In most African countries, these groups are represented by a foreign development-oriented organization, a community, a water and/or sanitation agency, and a planning and finance ministry. The three main elements of HRD generally comprise training, institutional strengthening, and sector linkage establishment activities. There is considerable overlap and interaction between these main elements, but in general conventional training is concentrated upon the community and the responsible water and sanitation agency, whereas institutional strengthening and sector linkage establishment is concentrated upon the responsible water and sanitation agency, and the planning and finance ministry. The authors were involved in designing and implementing a three-year water and sanitation program in the rural areas of western Sudan, which stressed sustainability and human resources development. This paper presents their experience in Sudan and shows how a successful HRD program can be designed and implemented.
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