Challenges to the implementation of building management systems in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present an assessment of the challenges to the implementation of building management systems (BMS) in Saudi Arabia, during the life cycle of building projects. Design/methodology/approach Review of literature and interviews were conducted with professionals to identify and synthesize the challenges to the implementation of BMS in Saudi Arabia. This formed the basis of three questionnaire surveys that were designed utilizing a five-point Likert scale, and consisted of 32 challenges. The surveys were assessed by representatives of architectural/engineering (A/E) firms, BMS installation sub-contractors and facilities managers to calculate the effect index of each challenge. Findings The top influential challenges pertaining to the briefing and design phase includes “inappropriate selection of the BMS,” “inappropriate selection of the A/E team”; installation and final acceptance phase includes “inappropriate selection of sub-contractors to install the BMS” and “inappropriate selection of the BMS suppliers,” operation and maintenance phase includes “inadequate initial training for the BMS facility personnel,” “poor operation and maintenance activities.” Practical implications The paper is of practical benefit to stakeholders in the building industry, as it allows for the development of an effective BMS implementation plan. Originality/value The study increases the level of awareness in the building industry about the challenges that influence the implementation of BMS.

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“…Fellows and Liu (2015) also suggested that "large number" statistics require a sample size equal to or greater than 32. Upon the collection of the data, the obtained responses were analyzed using the Effect Index (EI) according to the following formula (Dominowski, 1980;Hassanain et al, 2017):…”

“…Fellows and Liu (2015) also suggested that “large number” statistics require a sample size equal to or greater than 32. Upon the collection of the data, the obtained responses were analyzed using the Effect Index (EI) according to the following formula (Dominowski, 1980; Hassanain et al , 2017): where a i is the constant representing the weight assigned to i ; and x i is the variable representing the frequency assigned to i . The response for i is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and is illustrated as follows: x 0 = frequency of “Extreme Effect” response corresponding to a 0 = 4. x 1 = frequency of “Strong Effect” response corresponding to a 1 = 3. x 2 = frequency of “Moderate Effect” response corresponding to a 2 = 2. x 3 = frequency of “Slight Effect” response corresponding to a 3 = 1. x 4 = frequency of “No Effect” response corresponding to a 4 = 0. …”

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“…Supervisors may also face legal action if their inability to ensure a high standard of construction results in poor quality work. Hassanain et al (2017) shed light on the difficulties of establishing building management systems in Saudi Arabia from a legal perspective. Legal ramifications for engineers, contractors, and supervisors who breach Article 8 may vary from fines and penalties to suspension or revocation of licences, jeopardising their professional position in the field.…”