This paper compares the UK and Dutch occupational defined-benefit pension policies using the holistic balance sheet (HBS) framework. The UK DB pension system differs from the Dutch one in terms of the steering tools and adjustment mechanisms. In addition to the sponsor guarantee, the UK system...

This paper reports on a fully structured interview survey, using a multi-sectional questionnaire, of experienced construction contract price forecasters. The aim of the research was to investigate the relationship between the accuracy of ‘early-stage’ forecasts and experience (defined in...

This paper is concerned with predicting the probability of tendering the lowest bid in sealed bid auctions. Four of the leading models from the bidding literature are shown to be subsumed within a general model – differing only in their method of parameter estimation. These models are then...

This paper describes a structured methodology for modelling the information requirements of contracting firms' tender adjudication decisions. The method adopted is based on the techniques of information strategy planning and critical success factor analysis used in the development of executive...

Since Friedman, fundamental research in construction contract bidding and estimating has been concerned with the full problem definition, formulation and calibration. The general problem definition is now virtually complete in that bidding involves sequential and simultaneous decisions to be...

It is widely contended that since any one particular project contributes a relatively significant part of a construction firms turnover, the bidding decision on any one project will ultimately have a significant effect on the firms long term performance. It is also generally accepted that the...

This exploratory paper examines the drivers and obstacles to construction innovation. It is based on a large-scale survey of nearly 400 businesses in the Australian construction industry conducted in 2004, and twelve in-depth case studies of innovation on Australian construction projects between...

The use of financial incentives in construction projects has been seen as a way to improve short term motivation, collaboration and reinforce long term commitment between project stakeholders. Yet, very little empirical research has been conducted into how financial incentives should be applied...