EVALUATOR CAPACITY AND PERFORMANCE OF HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN KENYA

Objective: The objective of this research was to investigate the influence of evaluator capacity on performance of highway construction projects in Kenya.   Theoretical Framework: This study was anchored on Utilization-Focused Evaluation (UFE) theory. It explains that the effectiveness of an evaluation depends on the evaluator’s ability to engage intended users and tailor the evaluation process to their needs, thereby enhancing the use of findings to improve project performance.   Methodology: This research utilized pragmatism research philosophy and correlational design. The target population was 69 Category A road construction projects that have been completed by KeNHA for the period between 2018 and 2022. The respondents in these projects were the project managers in all the 69 highway construction projects in Kenya. The study used a census approach and hence all the projects were included in the study. The research adopted both secondary and primary data. While qualitative data was analyzed by of thematic analysis, quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included standard deviation, means, percentages, distribution of frequency. Inferential statistics include simple Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression analysis.   Results and Discussion: The study found that evaluator capacity has a positive and significant effect on performance of highway construction projects in Kenya (β1=0.524, p-value=0.000). The study recommends that project managers prioritize selecting qualified evaluators who possess strong academic backgrounds and relevant experience in similar projects.   Originality/Value: This study enriches existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the influence of evaluator capacity on the performance of highway construction projects in Kenya. It contributes to the understanding of how evaluator skills, experience, and engagement with stakeholders’ impact project outcomes, offering a foundation for future research and informing policy and practice aimed at strengthening evaluation processes in infrastructure development.   Research Implications: The findings contribute to practice by offering valuable insights for project managers, evaluators, and policymakers in Kenya’s infrastructure sector. Enhancing evaluator capacity can lead to more effective project assessments, improved decision-making, and increased accountability, ultimately boosting the performance and success rates of highway construction projects

THE ROLE OF RELATIONSHIP MARKETING IN CONSUMER PURCHASE DECISION: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

Objective: This study seeks to investigate the function of relationship marketing in consumer purchasing decisions.   Theoretical Framework: As a result of the significant changes witnessed in the last millennium at the global level in all spheres of life, perhaps the most prominent is the shift from the planned economy to the market economy, as well as the pressures of intense competition, the emergence of globalization, the information and technology revolution, the rise in levels of foreign investment, and the enormous increase in the number and types of products, services, and brands. It significantly influenced the decisions of consumers.   Method: Our study consists of a qualitative setting; thus, we have utilized the depth method, which helped us clarify the relation between consumer purchase decisions and relationship marketing from the perspective of both the consumer and the company, using semi-structured and unstructured interviews.   Results and Discussion: The results indicate that the foundation for achieving growth and sustainability in the markets is to attract the greatest number of customers possible, to strive for their satisfaction and gain loyalty, to work on establishing permanent partnership relationships with all customers, and to treat each customer as if it were its market division.   Research Implications: From a managerial application perspective, an understanding of consumers' expectations of their relationships with sellers would assist marketers in establishing, enhancing, and maintaining these relationships. Marketers need to identify how they can use customer data to improve customer relationships. Permission from customers can provide marketers with the privilege of contacting customers; information such as customer needs makes possible the customization of products and services; and data about the initiation and growth of customer relationships help to ensure effective and timely feedback. Marketers can informally survey their customers by asking about the relevance of various services, or they can formally survey their customers to gain more in-depth customer-specific information.   Originality/Value: The findings provide insight into consumers' motivations and attitudes with regard to relationship marketing and suggest a way forward for further research. In particular, a number of ways in which mobile phone companies might seek to encourage consumers to consider value-added service propositions more seriously and become less solely price-sensitive are proposed

STUDY OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE QUALITY OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION ON ACCOUNTING DISCLOSURE: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF A SAMPLE OF PRIVATE COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES IN ALGERIA FOR THE YEAR 2023

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the impact of information accuracy, transparency, and timely reporting on the level of accounting disclosure in companies.   Theoretical Framework: This study is based on concepts and theoretical frameworks related to the quality of accounting information and its effect on disclosure levels. It focuses on the relationship between information accuracy, transparency, and reporting speed as key determinants of increased accounting disclosure.   Method: The research adopts an analytical approach, focusing on examining the relationship between the quality of accounting information and disclosure levels. Data was collected by analyzing financial reports of companies, using statistical tools to measure the relationship between the variables.   Results and Discussion: The findings revealed a strong positive relationship between the quality of accounting information and the level of disclosure. This indicates that companies providing accurate, transparent, and timely reports achieve higher levels of accounting disclosure. In the discussion section, these results are interpreted in light of the theoretical frameworks related to information quality and its impact on accounting transparency, the challenges companies face in implementing these practices are also discussed..   Research Implications: The practical implications of this research lie in the importance of enhancing accounting training, updating internal accounting systems, and adopting modern technologies to improve the speed and quality of accounting reports, these recommendations could significantly influence improving disclosure levels in companies.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the relationship between the quality of accounting information and the level of disclosure, recommending improvements in accounting practices using modern techniques to enhance reporting speed and accuracy

REVIEW ON CDM IMPLEMENTATION IN THE MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the current practices of CDM in the Malaysian construction industry, aiming to identify the barriers to its implementation and provide a foundation for actionable improvements.   Theoretical Framework: This study adopts the PRISMA framework as the foundation for conducting the systematic literature review, ensuring a structured and transparent approach to identify, select, and analyze relevant literature.   Method: The analysis method employed for the systematic literature review is deductive content analysis, enabling a structured evaluation of the data to achieve the study’s objectives.   Results and Discussion: The results indicate that implementing CDM within the Malaysian construction industry remains a work in progress. Key barriers include limited safety knowledge among designers, inadequate competency in PtD practices, procurement systems that do not effectively support collaborative efforts, and the inherent nature of the industry.   Research Implications: The results of this study highlight the need to enhance procurement methods in the Malaysian construction industry to effectively support the collaborative implementation of CDM.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on CDM by addressing gaps in the literature, particularly within the Malaysian context, and providing insights to the government to support its effective implementation

ESTUDO DOS MATERIAIS ALTERNATIVOS PARA A MONTAGEM DE PAINÉIS DE VEDAÇÃO PARA A CONSTRUÇÃO CIVIL: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA DA LITERATURA

Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo a realização de uma revisão sistemática para analisar estudos acerca de materiais alternativos para a montagem de painéis de vedação destinados à construção civil, que tivesse cimento em sua composição.   Referencial teórico: a pesquisa foi conduzida pelas bases de dados Scielo e ScienceDirect.   Método: para este trabalho foi utilizada a metodologia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Como critério de elegibilidade foi levado em consideração o idioma da pesquisa, como também seu ano de publicação, título, formato de texto e resumo. Após a definição das palavras-chave, foram estabelecidos critérios para tornar a pesquisa mais eficiente.   Para a parte da extração de dados, elaborou-se uma planilha no Excel contendo dados do artigo e informações coletadas a partir de sua leitura.   Resultados e Discussão: Inicialmente juntando todas as bases de dados selecionadas, foram obtidos 491 artigos. Após todo o processo de filtragem, esse número foi reduzido para 4, que foram utilizados nesse trabalho de revisão sistemática.   Implicações da pesquisa: Os artigos foram selecionados com base em estudos que traziam materiais que pudessem ser utilizados na fabricação de painéis considerando seu potencial quanto à reutilização após o descarte e que pudessem ser retirados do material descartado e posteriormente reaproveitados, e que utilizassem o cimento Portland.   Originalidade/valor: Por meio dessa redução apresentada, foi possível para perceber o pouco espaço que essa questão ainda tem no Brasil. Mas, considerando que a solução é viável e eficaz, ao que tudo indica, as pesquisas ainda avançarão muito nos próximos anos

EXAMINING THE ROLE OF FOOD WASTE MANAGEMENT IN COST EFFICIENCY WITHIN GREECE'S TOURISM INDUSTRY

Objective: The purpose and purpose of this study is to examine how food waste is managed in the tourism sector (hotels and restaurants) that offer food in Greece and how they deal with the relationship between food waste and the cost of operating their food service divisions.   Theoretical Framework: Recent literature has reported on important aspects of food waste in the tourism sector. However, there is much more to be explored and implemented. This paper investigates the critical role of food waste management in cost optimization within the Greek tourism industry.   Method: The study is based on a literature review on the food wastage of foodservice operators in the tourism sector in Greece managing food waste and how they address the relationship between food waste and the operating costs of food service divisions.   Results and Discussion: A review of the literature suggests that the issue of food waste, particularly in hotels and restaurants, has been much more researched in the last five years. The results showed multiple approaches, namely: preventing food waste, donating uneaten food to those in need, recycling and composting leftovers, taking advantage of technological developments and raising awareness about food waste.   Research Implications: The study is expected to enrich theoretical developments on food waste in the tourism sector. The findings are also expected to shed light on multiple approaches to food waste, especially in hotels and restaurants.   Originality / Value: Multiple approaches to food waste in the tourism sector are reported

THE IMPACT OF SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE GREEN ECONOMY IN OMAN

Objective: This study aims to The Impact Of Sustainable Environment On The Development Of The Green Economy In Oman, Reducing gas emissions by using alternative methods to create a clean environment and a green economy.   Theoretical Framework: This study focuses on the concept of environmental development and green economy and gives an example of this in Oman.   Method: A pragmatic research paradigm was adopted, utilizing a mixed-methods research design. Primary data collection methods included key informant interviews and structured questionnaires. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.   Results and discussion: The findings of this paper also suggest that sustainable development is essential for the long-term economic growth and development of Oman. The analysis of the data revealed that Oman's economy is still heavily reliant on the oil and gas sector, and that there is a need to increase investment in renewable energy and other sectors in order to diversify the economy. The analysis also revealed that employment in the non-oil and gas sector is largely concentrated in the public sector, which suggests that there is a need to create more jobs in the private sector.   Originality: An innovative proposal for a green economy in Oman through environmental development to replace alternative energies and reduce environmental emissions

LIQUIDITY RISK MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, AND PERFORMANCE OF REAL ESTATE CONSTRUCTION HOUSING PROJECTS IN KENYA; A CASE OF REAL ESTATE CONSTRUCTION HOUSING PROJECTS IN BUSIA COUNTY

Objective: This study examined the extent to which liquidity risk management practices influence the performance of real estate construction housing projects in Busia County, Kenya. It aimed to assess how effective liquidity management contributes to project continuity, financial stability, and successful completion.   Theoretical Framework: The study was anchored on financial management theory and risk control theory. These frameworks provide a basis for understanding how liquidity risk management can mitigate project delays, cost overruns, and financial instability in the construction sector.   Method: A descriptive survey design was adopted. The target population included 1,832 stakeholders in real estate construction, from which a sample of 298 was selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data collection tools included structured questionnaires, interview schedules, checklists, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and simple linear regression in SPSS version 25. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.   Results and Discussion: The study tested the null hypothesis that there is no significant relationship between liquidity risk management practices and project performance at a 0.025 level of significance. The hypothesis was rejected (p = 0.000), indicating a statistically significant positive relationship. Effective liquidity planning enhanced financial flow, minimized delays, and improved project outcomes, confirming theoretical expectations.   Research Implications: The study offers insights for developers, managers, and policymakers on the need to institutionalize strong liquidity risk frameworks to ensure project sustainability.   Originality/Value: This study contributes original empirical evidence from a developing economy, addressing gaps in construction finance literature and supporting strategic decision-making in real estate development

ANÁLISIS SITUACIONAL DE LA GESTIÓN ADMINISTRATIVA DE ACUEDUCTOS COMUNITARIOS RURALES: UN ESTUDIO DE CASO

Objetivo: El objetivo es analizar la gestión administrativa y operativa de tres acueductos rurales del municipio de Zipacón, Cundinamarca, Colombia.   Marco Teórico: Las teorías que soportan el presente artículo corresponden a la gobernanza y la participación comunitaria, así como, la sostenibilidad ambiental, social y económica, eficiencia organizacional y Gestión administrativa de organizaciones comunitarias.   Método: Se utilizó una metodología con enfoque mixto con énfasis particular en el uso de datos cualitativos. Para ello, se emplearon entrevistas semiestructuradas dirigidas a los presidentes de las juntas directivas de dichos acueductos.   Resultados y Discusión: Los resultados obtenidos evidenciaron falencias organizacionales, tales como la ausencia de manuales de operación y tratamiento de agua, falta de control y planeación financiera, así como una cartera elevada que no permitía tener la liquidez necesaria para el funcionamiento.   Implicaciones de la Investigación: Se identificaron acciones potenciales para la mejora, tales como la diversificación de las fuentes de ingreso, la capacitación del personal y la incorporación de tecnologías más eficientes.   Originalidad/Valor: Este estudio permite que los acueductos rurales ofrezcan un servicio de agua potable de mayor calidad, lo que contribuiría a mejorar la calidad de vida en las zonas rurales del país

DEMANDA POR COMPETÊNCIAS DE IA NO MERCADO DE TRABALHO: UMA ANÁLISE NO CONTEXTO DO DATA LABELER

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é investigar a demanda por habilidades relacionadas à Inteligência Artificial (IA), com foco no papel do Data Labeler, profissão essencial para o treinamento de algoritmos. Busca-se explorar as competências necessárias para atuar nesse contexto e identificar estratégias para preparar trabalhadores e empresas para o mercado de trabalho em transformação.   Referencial Teórico: A pesquisa fundamenta-se em teorias sobre transformação digital, automação e competências profissionais na era da IA. São abordados conceitos relacionados ao desenvolvimento de habilidades híbridas e ao papel estratégico do Data Labeler no processo de machine learning.   Método: Adotou-se uma abordagem qualitativa, baseada em revisão de literatura composta por artigos acadêmicos, livros e relatórios recentes. Foram selecionadas fontes confiáveis que discutem as mudanças nas profissões e a crescente demanda por competências técnicas e interpessoais relacionadas à IA.   Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados indicam que o Data Labeler deve possuir atenção aos detalhes, capacidade analítica e habilidades interpessoais, como trabalho em equipe. A discussão aponta a importância da formação de competências híbridas para a adaptação às transformações do mercado e destaca a necessidade de programas educacionais específicos.   Implicações da Pesquisa: Este estudo fornece insights práticos e teóricos sobre a preparação de profissionais para o mercado impulsionado pela IA, sugerindo iniciativas educacionais que abordem habilidades emergentes e contribuam para a competitividade organizacional.   Originalidade/Valor: A pesquisa contribui para a literatura ao destacar o Data Labeler como profissão emergente e estratégica, evidenciando a relevância das habilidades híbridas em um cenário de intensa automação e digitalização