Context guided retrieval

This paper presents a hierarchical case representation that uses a context guided retrieval method The performance of this method is compared to that of a simple flat file representation using standard nearest neighbour retrieval. The data presented in this paper is more extensive than that presented in an earlier paper by the same authors. The estimation of the construction costs of light industrial warehouse buildings is used as the test domain. Each case in the system comprises approximately 400 features. These are structured into a hierarchical case representation that holds more general contextual features at its top and specific building elements at its leaves. A modified nearest neighbour retrieval algorithm is used that is guided by contextual similarity. Problems are decomposed into sub-problems and solutions recomposed into a final solution. The comparative results show that the context guided retrieval method using the hierarchical case representation is significantly more accurate than the simpler flat file representation and standard nearest neighbour retrieval

The practice of risk management by cost consultants in Northern Ireland

This research endeavoured to explore the practice of risk management by cost consultants in Northern Ireland. It attempted to subjectively investigate the cost consultant’s appreciation of risk management practices and then further appraise the cost consultant’s understanding and usage of the theories and techniques available to manage risk under the risk management framework. A case study based approach involving five consultancy practices was adopted. A series of semi structured interviews (one per each case study) was carried out. The data collected was analysed using the Delphi technique. The practice of risk management for each organisation was documented using an analysis and evaluation of project documentation substantiated with interviews. The research indicated that consultants have a broad awareness of risk management but disparity exists on considering it as a core service. All consultants were unequivocal in identifying the need for an improved risk management framework. It was evident that there was a lack of knowledge of the array of risk identification and analysis techniques available. The research has established that there is a severe need to bridge the void between the theories and techniques used to manage risk and those which are implemented in practice. There is a necessity to train consultants in the practice of risk management and educate clients in the benefits of enforcing risk management practices as an integral part of project delivery