DEPT OF REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION

Researcher : Chau KW

Project Title:

Sources of productivity growth in Hong Kong's construction industry

Investigator(s):

Chau KW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2003

 

Abstract:

To investigate the factors that affect the total factor productivity (TFP) in the Hong Kong's construction industry over the past 30 years.

 

 

Project Title:

Industry level productivity trends in Hong Kong's construction industry

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Ganesan S

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To investigate the factors that affect the industry level total factor productivity (TFP) in the Hong Kong's construction industry over the past 30 years (1972-2001). To accomplish this goal, the following objectives have to be achieved; 1) to measure the industry level total factor productivity in the construction industry(TC); to identify and factors affecting the (TC); to test empirically the effects of the factors identifies in (2) on the TC.

 

Project Title:

The characteristics of the production technologies in Hong Kong's construction industry

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Ganesan S

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2004

 

Abstract:

To investigate the degree of substitutability between different types of construction resource in Hong Kong's construction industry; to analyze the nature and characteristics of technological progress in Hong Kong's construction industry.

 

 

Project Title:

Proposal from the sustainable cities research theme group

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Chan ATY, Hau TD, Jim CY, Kwan AKH, Lai LWC

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme

Start Date:

05/2005

 

Abstract:

The strategic goup to encourage and support scholarly activities that advance HKU's international standing in Sustainable Cities research; build on existing strengths; are interdisciplinary in nature; and are of relevance to the community.

 

Project Title:

A test of property market efficiency using simulated air quality in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

09/2005

 

Abstract:

Good air quality is a highly valued good, especially in a compact city with high density development such as Hong Kong. In a world with zero information cost, variations in air quality in different areas should be reflected in property prices. However, in the absence of publicly available information on air quality, it is uncertain whether variations in air quality will be factored into property prices even in a very liquid and efficient market. Empirical findings in Hong Kong suggested that the district level Air Pollution Index (API) has an impact on relative property prices in different districts. It is, however, uncertain whether the variations in property prices are due to the availability of the district level API to the general public or a genuine response of market participants to variations in air quality. The latter implies a much stronger form of market efficiency than that is known today. Moreover, there were also problems in using district-level data by previous studies because the wide variation in many attributes of properties in the same district may introduce too much noise to their models and thus invalidate their results.In order to test the efficiency of the property market, this research aims to:- simulate street level air quality of an densely populated area using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model; - analyze the relationship between air quality and property prices at a microscopic level to eliminate the district level noise; and- examine whether the variations in property prices are to residents' genuine response to variations in air quality.

 

Project Title:

Market Sentiment, Winners Curse, and Bidding Strategy in Auctions of Developable Land'

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Wong SK, Tse KS, Pretorius FIH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The objective of this study is to examine the factors affecting bidders' bidding strategies in land auctions and how the stock market reacts to the bidding strategies. In particular, we are interested to examine: 1 whether bidders have adjusted for potential winner's course 2 whether real estate market sentiment affect the adjustment for potential winner's course 3 degree of competition affects bidding strategies 4 joint bidding suppresses bid prices 5 stock market sentiment are affected by bidding strategies 6 share price of the winning company is affected by its bidding strategy.

 

 

Project Title:

Pre-sale practices in the real estate market and building quality

Investigator(s):

Chau KW, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

Selling unfinished properties (pre-sale) is a common practice in many real estate markets. Pre-sale of properties allows both buyers and sellers to hedge against future price changes. However, one major problem of pre-sale is that buyers of an unfinished property cannot easily assess its quality. Although there is normally some form of warranty in a pre-sale contract, which typically last for 12 months after completion, buyer are not sufficiently protected since many building defects may not be noticeable until many years later. Many previous studies argue that the pre-sold properties are of lower quality due to the moral hazard problem. This problem, in the extreme case, would lead to extinction of the pre-sale market. In a more realistic scenario, the moral hazard problem implies that high quality properties are less likely to be pre-sold. Nonetheless, not only that pre-sale is a very common practice and it is an equally popular practice for low and high quality properties. We hypothesize that real estate developers' reputations have an important role to play in signalling the quality of pre-sold units to the perspective buyers and therefore mitigates the moral hazard problem. This project aims to theoretically explain and empirically test (1) whether developer's reputation is priced in the pre-sale market and (2) whether the expected quality of the a pre-sale property is consistent with the actual quality of the completed property.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Wong S.K., Leung H.F., Lau S.Y. and Wong W.S., A Survey of the Health and Safety Conditions of Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong , Building & Environment. 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Jin Z. and Wong S.K., Calendar Anomaly in the Hong Kong's Residential Market, The Asian Real Estate Society/AREUEA Joint Conference, July 2006 . Vancouver, Canada, 2006.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Yau Y. and Cheung A.K.C., Determining optimal building height, Urban Studies. 2007, 44(3): 591-607.

 

Chau K.W., Editor in Chief, Surveying and Built Environment. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Housing Quality in the Forward Contracts Market, Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. 2007, 34: 313-325.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Repeat Sales Analysis of Seaview Value, European Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papaer Award - for a paper titled "An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papers Award: An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007, 437-445.

 

Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K., Wong W.S. and Chan Y.L., Measuring and interpreting the effects of a public-sector-led urban renewal project on housing prices - an empirical study of a comprehensive development area zone developed upon 'taking' in Hong Kong, Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design. 2007, 34: 524-538.

 

Lau S.S.Y., Li F.M., Leung D.K.C., Tang G.W.K., Baharuddin B., Ye A.M., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Compromising building regulations and user expectations in the design of high-rise domestic kitchens, Structural Survey. 2006, 24(3): 212-229.

 

Li Y.M., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Voice and dollar: an empirical study on the correlation between about environmental complaints and residential prices in Hong Kong, The 14th Annual European Real Estate Society (ERES) Conference. London, 2007.

 

Newell G.J., Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and McKinnell K.G., Factors influencing the performance of Hong Kong property companies, Journal of Real Estate Portfolio Management. 2007, 13(1): 75-86.

 

Tang W.K. and Chau K.W., An empirical study of the relationship between housing prices and speculative activities in Hong Kong, Surveying and Built Environment. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, 2006, 17(2): 29-36.

 

Wadu Mesthrige J., Lau S.S.Y., Ganesan S., Wong K.C. and Chau K.W., Growth of Advanced Service Firms And Usage of Quality Office Space: The Case of Hong Kong, In: Sŏul Sirip Taehakkyo. , International Journal of Urban Sciences. Seoul, Sujeon Publishers, 2007, 11(1): 57-84.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W., Wong K.C., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Do Real Estate Prices Lead Student Quality?, American Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Wong K.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Does Student Quality Fluctuate with Real Estate Prices?, Proceeding of the 23nd Annual Meeting of the American Real Estate Society(ARES) . 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Real estate spot and forward markets: first and second moments transmission, The Joint 2006 AREUEA-AsRES International Conference. Vancouver, 2006.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Volatility transmission in the real estate spot and forward markets, Proceedings of the HKU-NUS Symposium on Real Estate Research. Hong Kong, 2007, 291-306.

 

Zou G. and Chau K.W., Short- and long-run effects between oil consumption and economic growth in China, Energy Policy. Oxford, Elsevier Science, 2006, 34: 3644-3655.

 

Researcher : Cheung AKC

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Wong S.K., Leung H.F., Lau S.Y. and Wong W.S., A Survey of the Health and Safety Conditions of Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong , Building & Environment. 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Yau Y. and Cheung A.K.C., Determining optimal building height, Urban Studies. 2007, 44(3): 591-607.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Researcher : Fellows RF

List of Research Outputs

 

Fellows R.F., (Chair) Professor of Culture in Construction (fractional), Glasgow Caledonian University. 2007.

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., Behaviours of People as an Organisational Citizen, Proceedings, CIB Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 26-29 Nov. 2006, The British University in Dubai, UAE; CIB TG 23; Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Engineering in Loughborough University, UK.. 2006.

 

Fellows R.F., Construction Management and Economics, Member of the Editorial Board, 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Grisham T. and Tijhuis W., Enabling Project Team Culture, In: Sexton, M., Kahkonen, K., Lu, S-L., Revaluing Construction: A W065 ‘Organisation and Management of Construction’ Perspective. Rotterdam, CIB, 2007, 27-44.

 

Fellows R.F., Liu A.M.M. and Cheng C.W.M., Impact of Organizational Culture on the Implementation of Total Quality Management in Construction Firms , Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors Congress. Auckland, NZ, 2007, CD-Rom.

 

Fellows R.F., Joint Coordinator, CIB Working Commission W112, Culture in Construction, 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Joint guest Editor for Special Edition on Cross-Cultural Leadership, International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management . Inderscience, 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Member of the Editorial Board, Construction Management and Economics. 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Member of the Editorial Board, RICS Research Paper Series. RICS, 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Member, International Scientific Review Committee, CME25 International Conference. 2007.

 

Fellows R.F., Member, International Scientific Review Committee, International Conference on Multi-National Joint Ventures for Construction Works. 2007.

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., New Directions in International Joint Ventures for Construction: Theory and Practice”, Proceedings. Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Venture for Construction Works. Hanoi, Vietnam, 28-29 Sept 2006. Kyoto University, University of Transportation and Communications, Asian Institute of Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, National University of Singapore. Hanoi, Vietnam, 2006.

 

Fellows R.F., Cheung M.F. and Cheung C.C., Power, Leadership and Cultures in Quantity Surveying Practices in Hong Kong , Journal of Construction Management. 2007, 7: 29-42.

 

Fellows R.F., Understanding Approaches to Culture, Construction Information Quarterly. 2006, 8: 155-166.

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., Values and Sustainability: determination, stability and impacts , International Conference on Whole Life Urban Sustainability and its Assessment. 2007, CD-Rom.

 

Fellows R.F., Liu A.M.M. and Chiu W.M., Work Empowerment as an Antecedent to Organisational Commitment in the Hong Kong Quantity Surveying Profession, Surveying and Built Environment. 2006, 17: 63-72.

 

Liu A.M.M. and Fellows R.F., Work empowerment as an antecedent of organizational commitment in the Hong Kong quantity surveying profession, Proceedings, CIB Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 26-29 Nov. 2006, The British University in Dubai, UAE; CIB TG 23; Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Engineering in Loughborough University, UK.. 2006.

 

Researcher : Hastings EM

Project Title:

An examination of the participation, role and professional achievements of women in the surveying profession in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Hastings EM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

RSS Grant Distributed via Faculty

Start Date:

11/1994

 

Abstract:

To examine the perceptions and professional achievements of women involved in surveying in Hong Kong and to identify the implications for the future development of the profession.

 

Researcher : Ho DCW

Project Title:

Developing performance specifications and testing and acceptance criteria of external wall finishes in high-rise residential buildings

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

The Housing Authority Research Fund

Start Date:

09/2002

 

Abstract:

To investigate the reasons for external wall finishes failure; to develop the best practice specifications and testing procedures for use in Hong Kong; to standardize acceptance criteria in assessing conditions of external wall finishes for buildings in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

Building safety index: a pilot scheme

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop an assessment scheme to classify buildings in respect of safety.

 

Project Title:

Constructing a health and hygiene index for residential buildings in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW, Chau KW, Wong WS, Leung HF, Wong SK, Lau SSY

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2004

 

Abstract:

To inform occupants and the public of the health and hygiene risk associated with their living environment by constructing a < and I>hygiene Index (BHHI).

 

Project Title:

The relationship between public health and the built environment

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

Completion Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

To develop a theoretical framework on how the environment affects the health of occupants living in apartment buildings; to examine the empirical relationship between public health and the built environment by using a unique set of property attributes and personal health data in Hong Kong.

 

 

Project Title:

The relationship between building conditions and management structures in multi-owned apartment buildings

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

09/2005

 

Abstract:

In Hong Kong, the majority of households live in multi-storey apartment buildings under co-ownership arrangements. Generally speaking, the owners of individual units are co-owners of their buildings with undivided shares corresponding to the size of their units. They have exclusive rights over their individual units, and they are also collectively responsible for the management of the common parts of their buildings. A major challenge to managing the common parts of multi-ownership buildings is the difficulty of reaching collective decisions by co-owners. The absence of a consensus has often resulted in problems such as under-maintenance and the proliferation of unauthorized building works. The tribulations of building neglect were further exacerbated by the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in early 2003. In view of these problems, the government has encouraged owners to participate in building management (e.g. forming Owners’ Corporations) and employ property management companies. But so far, there has been no empirical evidence on whether changing the building management structures can bring improvement to building performance. This research aims to empirically test the relationship between building management structures and the physical conditions of private apartment buildings in Hong Kong by: 1) Reviewing the legal and operational issues of building management in Hong Kong; 2) Conducting a conditions survey for a group of apartment buildings in Hong Kong; and 3) Evaluating the relationship between building conditions and management structures through statistical modeling.

 

Project Title:

Constructing a Safety and Conditions Index for Multi-storey Residential Buildings in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW, Chau KW, Lau SSY, Wong WS, Leung HF, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2005

 

Abstract:

The objective of this project is to develop an assessment scheme to classify multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong in respect of the building safety and conditions.

 

 

Project Title:

Evaluating the Management Performance of Multi-storey Residential Buildings in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Ho DCW, Chau KW, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

In Hong Kong, the majority of households live in multi-storey apartment buildings under co-ownership arrangement. Such kind of arrangement often leads to challenges in the management of the common parts of multi-ownership buildings because it is difficult to reach collective decisions by the co-owners. The absence of a consensus has often resulted in problems such as under-maintenance and the proliferation of unauthorized building works. To alleviate this problem, better building management is needed. Building management performance was usually measured by key performance indicators, which are either input-based (e.g. maintenance expenditure), process-based (e.g. workflow) or output-based (e.g. occupants’ satisfaction). However, whether these indicators enable like-with-lie comparisons across buildings is questionable. It is flawed thinking to attribute a more “satisfactory” building to better management performance with holding other exogenous factors (e.g. building age) constant. Besides, management fees are not a good measure of management performance as they vary greatly with the quantity, not quality of the services provided. In our study, we propose a residual concept to extract building management performance. A regression model that relates an output measure (e.g. building conditions) to a building’s inborn attributes (e.g. building age), residents’ characteristics (e.g. household income) and coordination mechanisms (e.g. formation of owners’ association) will be developed. The residual of the model is impliedly the pure management performance of a building. This research aims to empirically evaluate the management performance of private apartment buildings in Hong Kong by: 1) formulating a novel framework to assess and compare building management performance in Hong Kong using a residual concept; 2) conducting a conditions survey for a group of apartment buildings in Hong Kong; and 3) evaluating the relationship between management performance and property prices

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Ho D.C.W., A Comparative Study of Corporate Strategies of Mainland and Hong Kong-based Real Estate Developers, International Conference on The Experience and Future of Real Estate Markets in Korea and China, Konkuk Univerisity, Korea. 2006.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papaer Award - for a paper titled "An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papers Award: An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007, 437-445.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Building Quality Assessment for Sustainable Urban Development , International Networking for Young Scientists(INYS) 2007, British Council . 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Building Quality Assessment for Sustainable Urban Development, Keynote Speech, 2nd Mega-Cities International Conference, Guangzhou China. 2006.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Challenges and Opportunities in Academia, Building Surveyors Conference. 2006.

 

Ho D.C.W., Wong W.S., Lim B.E.R.N.A.R.D., Cheung D.A.N.I.E.L. and Kwong K.E.L.V.I.N. .K...K., Key Researcher in the project 'Quality of Life for Publlic Housing with Emphasis on Health and Safety Issues' , Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) Special Architectural Award - Architectural Research . 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Member, Academic Committee, Advanced Diploma in Facility and Property Management, SPACE, HKU. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Member, Appeal Tribunal Panel, Section 48(1), Buildings Ordinance, Housing, Planning and Lands Bureau, Government of the HKSAR. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lo S.M. and Yiu C.Y., Performance Specifications and Testing of External Wall Tiles, Materials Science and Technology for Engineers Conference MaSTEC2007.

 

Lai L.W.C., Ho D.C.W. and Yung P., Survey of the Pottinger Battery, Journal of the Hong Kong Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society. 2007, 47.

 

Wan H.H.Y., Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Effects of management bodies on the building management quality of private residential buildings in Hong Kong, Surveying and Built Environment. Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, 2006, 17(2): 73-77.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W., Wong K.C., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Do Real Estate Prices Lead Student Quality?, American Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Wong K.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Does Student Quality Fluctuate with Real Estate Prices?, Proceeding of the 23nd Annual Meeting of the American Real Estate Society(ARES) . 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y., Lo S.M. and Ho D.C.W., Failure Probability of External Wall Tiling Systems: An Empirical Study of Weathering Impacts, In: Mike Hoxley, Structural Survey. UK, Emerald, 2006, 24(5): 397-404.

 

Researcher : Hsu BFC

Project Title:

Real estate cycles and credit ratings of banks in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Hsu BFC, Chau KW, Pretorius FIH, Tse KS

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop an analytical framework that will allow financial and economic policymakers to evaluate the impact of real estate market on the financial health, as gauged by the credit ratings of a bank, and hence the overall banking system in Hong Kong.

 

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Arner D.W., Booth C., Hsu B.F.C., Lejot P.L., Liu Q. and Pretorius F.I.H., Property Rights, Collateral And Creditor Rights In East Asia, In: Ismail Dalla, East Asia Finance Selected Issues. U.S.A., The World Bank, 2007, 1-42.

 

Arner D.W., Booth C., Hsu B.F.C. and Lejot P.L., Property Rights, Collateral, Creditor Rights and Financial Development, In: Guido Alpa and Mads Andenas, European Business Law Review. United Kingdom, Kluwer Law, 2006, 17:5: 1215-1240.

 

Barth J.R., Zhou Z., Arner D.W., Hsu B.F.C. and Wang W., Financial Restructuring and Reform in Post-WTO China , London, Kluwer, 2006, 385.

 

Barth J.R., Zhou Z., Arner D.W., Hsu B.F.C. and Wang W., Global View: Observations on China’s Banking Laws under the WTO, The China Banker. Beijing, 2006, 93-95.

 

Barth J.R., Zhou Z.F., Arner D.W., Hsu B.F.C. and Wang W., The WTO and Financial Restructuring in China, In: J. Barth, Z. Zhou, D. Arner, B. Hsu, and W. Wang, Financial Restructuring and Reform in Post-WTO China. United Kingdom, Kluwer Law, 2007, 1-43.

 

Hsu B.F.C., Arner D.W. and Pretorius F.I.H., Beyond The Basel Accord: Should The Capital Adequacy Ratio Take Account Of The Real Estate Environment In The Hong Kong SAR, In: Steven Meyerowitz, The Banking Law Journal. U.S.A., A.S. Pratt & Sons, 2007, 124:4: 297-308.

 

Hsu B.F.C., Arner D.W. and Wan Q., Policy Functions As Law: Legislative Forbearance In China's Asset Management Companies, In: Matt Sereratto and Lillian Woung, UCLA Pacific Basin Law Journal. U.S.A., University of California, 2007, 23:2: 129-171.

 

Hsu B.F.C. and Arner D.W., WTO Accession, Financial Reform And The Rule Of Law In China, In: Wang Shaoguang, China Review. Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2007, 7:1: 53-80.

 

Researcher : Jin Z

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Jin Z. and Wong S.K., Calendar Anomaly in the Hong Kong's Residential Market, The Asian Real Estate Society/AREUEA Joint Conference, July 2006 . Vancouver, Canada, 2006.

 

Researcher : Lai LWC

Project Title:

Sustainable development control in Hong Kong: a case study

Investigator(s):

Lai LWC

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

09/2005

 

Abstract:

The objective of this proposal is to statistically evaluate the sustainability of a development control system in terms of self-financing, control of externalities and efficiency using publicly available data. The key issues would be the justification relevant evaluation criteria and the design of the statistical method to carry out the evaluation. The problem is largely a matter of the time consuming nature of data collection and data analysis. In addition, it is worth interviewing practitioners, developers and officials but work of this nature will be performed by tyhe investigators, not the RA1.

 

Project Title:

Urban planning and innovations for sustainable city development: an analytical and empirical analysis of master layout plans for comprehensive development areas

Investigator(s):

Lai LWC, Chau KW, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Public Policy Research

Start Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

Primary purpose: To study, evaluate and report on the contribution of statutory town planning to environmental improvements and sustainable development by an empirical study on planning conditions and master layout plans for a major class of zones for comprehensive development, Comprehensive Development Areas, which govern major development in Hong Kong. Specific Objecitves: To examine for the selected class of zones during the study period (1 Jan 01 to 31 Aug 05): 1. the nature of planning conditions in terms of sustainability; 2. the factual compliance with planning conditions; 3. the environmental effects of planning conditions in master layout plans for the immediate neighbourhood in terms of environmental complaints; 4. the value effects of planning conditions in master layout plans for the immediate neighbourhood in terms of property value appreciation (depreciation); and 5. the innovations that come about by way of imposition of planning conditions.

 

Project Title:

The Facts and Myths of the Battle of Hong Kong: an Aerial Photographic and Land Suveying Analysis of the Gin Drinkers' Line

Investigator(s):

Lai LWC

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES: This purpose of this proposed study is to gather and interpret evidence from post war low attitude (3000 to 4000 feet) aerial photo images of and field study on the military installations in the Gin Drinkers' Line using land surveying techniques with the objective of informing the emerging historical debate on the Battle of Hong Kong with a focus on the Shing Mun Redoubt of the Line as a matter of heritage conservation and the proper reconstruction of history based on facts. CREDENTIALS OF THE PI: The PI has outside practice experinece as an expert witness in aerial photo interpretaton and have published works on the subject and has been awarded two Lord Wilson Heritage Trust grants (in collaboration with Dr. Daniel Ho) for land surveying and conservation research of the military sites on Devil's Peak. BACKGROUND: There has been a resurgence of community interest in the past of Hong Kong and the SAR Government has taken the opportunity to promote heritage conservation, cultural tourism and research. The Battle of Hong Kong fought in December 1941 is surely an important link in these arena. However, academic and professional discussion on the Battle has not been illuminated by any serious concern for the accurate location of battle fields or installations. Most illustrative materials in books and journal articles were drawn to such a small-scale or at such a broad brush "strategic" or "policy" level that little direct use can be made of them for conservation or tourism planning purposes, not to mention on a discussion on the actual conduct of war. Many key research questions of signficnace for the historians cannot be answered in the absence of accurate large scale survey plans and to-scale 3-D drawings. The questions surrounding the famous Gin Drinkers' Line, the so-called Maginot of the East, is a case in point. The Gin Drinkers' Line is a system of "pillboxes" [machine gun strongpoints built of reinforced concrete in key hilly and coastal positions stretching from Kwai Chung to Port Shelter] and related defence structures. The Shing Mun Redoubt was a major bastion of this Line but it fell within the first 48 hours of the 18-day Battle of Hong Kong. KEY ISSUES: ACADEMIC & TECHNICAL The key academic research issue that this study would address is be the validity and nature of several "received" views about the conduct of the Battle in terms of the Gin Drinkers' Line with the Shing Mun Redoubt as the focal point. These views have actually been derived from second hand reports released post war. Neither the public record office in UK nor in Hong Kong has any accurate measured drawing or plan of the Line, not to mention the redoubt (for which there is only a skematic design scheme). One such view is that the Line fell at once after the collapse of the Redoubt and the Golden Hill area. But how extensive was the battle field? And what sense could we make of the alleged discovery of dead bodies in pillboxes in the Sai King area after the surrender? The received view is that the Line was no longer manned once the order to evacuate Kowloon was made. But if that was so, then any evidence that pillboxes in other locations revealed scars of hostility would be counter-factual. The technical issue or challenge for this study would be: how can we reconstruct history of more than 60 years from the battle itself? The methodolgy used to reconstruct history with a high degree of duplicable accuracy is to consult aerial photos. The R C Hunting survey of Hong Kong in 1963 generated the best post-war series of aerial photos. As then the countryside of Hong Kong had not been disturbed by either revegetation or urban sprawling, these photos contain images of war ruins and battle fields. The photos can be portion enlarged to reveal clearly objects (such as the air shaft for an air raid tunnel or a pillbox). These black and white photos were also taken at a time when the air quality in Hong Kong was excellent. Recent coloured photos are inferior in many ways: destruction of relics as a result of urban growth; thicker vegetation cover; poor visibility due to pollution etc.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K., Wong W.S. and Chan Y.L., Measuring and interpreting the effects of a public-sector-led urban renewal project on housing prices - an empirical study of a comprehensive development area zone developed upon 'taking' in Hong Kong, Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design. 2007, 34: 524-538.

 

Lai L.W.C., Ho D.C.W. and Yung P., Survey of the Pottinger Battery, Journal of the Hong Kong Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society. 2007, 47.

 

Li Y.M., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Voice and dollar: an empirical study on the correlation between about environmental complaints and residential prices in Hong Kong, The 14th Annual European Real Estate Society (ERES) Conference. London, 2007.

 

Researcher : Lam YMB

List of Research Outputs

 

Lau P.C. and Lam Y.M.B., The Sustainable Life Cycle Management and Maintenance Benefits of Intelligent Buildings, Proceeding of International Conference on Intelligent Systems, Structures & Facilities (ISSF) 2006 Conference Proceedings, Asian Institute of Intelligent Buildings ISSF 2006 Conference. Hong Kong, 2006.

 

Researcher : Leung HF

Project Title:

The use of mediation in personal injuries cases in the construction industry in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Leung HF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

Completion Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

To examine the merits and demerits of using mediation for settlement of personal injuries claims in local and international contexts; to study the characteristics of personal injuries claims in the construction industry; to identify the problems that have been or may be encountered in such cases; to find out the solutions for the problems identified; to identify further studies for the benefit of the practice of mediation as a form of dispute resolution in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

Factors affecting land resumption compensation in lands tribunal cases in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Leung HF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To study the rules of law governing the amount of compensation in land resumption cases under the Lands Resumption Ordinance; to identify observable factors that may affect the amount of compensation determined by the Lands Tribunal; to construct an empirical model that predicts the amount of compensation using the observable factors.

 

Project Title:

A Study on the Feasibility on the Use of Mediation for Construction Disputes in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Leung HF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

The use of mediation has been assisted by the Government of Hong Kong for many years. Since the early nineties, the use of mediation has been included in the Government General Conditions of Contract for Building Works. In 2005, mediation has been included in the private sector of the construction industry of Hong Kong in its new standard form of building contract. Despite all the good intent and purposes in the promotion of the use of mediation, and despite the advocacy that it is a more economical and speedy method to resolve disputes than litigation if settlement can be reached, mediation has not been able to gain its popularity as expected in the past. In recent years, mediation has become widely used in different kinds of cases such as insurance, construction, family, community, shipping, personal injuries and general commercial disputes in many places in the world. Classic examples include USA, Australia and UK. In New Zealand, mediation has been used for personal injuries claims cases to an extent that there are very few personal injuries litigation cases very year. In Hong Kong, a pilot scheme for the use of mediation has been introduced for family cases in the courts has been introduced few years ago. Earlier this year, there has been a consultation paper on a practice direction on the use of mediation for cases under the Construction and Arbitraiton List of the Court of First Instance, which consultation has led to the practice direction to be in effect from September, 2006. It is expected that there will be more mediation cases coming. Despite the fact that there has been much effort spent by various bodies in promoting the use of mediation, the practice remains in the hands of a few vanguards in the few and disputants can hardly have any in-depth knowledge in the process. It is therefore important that experience in the use of mediation in other countries should be brought to the attention of users and practitioners in Hong Kong and also for the purpose of improving the system already and to be imposed by the judiciary. The objectives of this study are therefore to: 1. to find out the experience in the use of mediation for construction disputes in other countries including but not limited to USA, Australia and UK 2. to identify the strengths and limitations of mediation when being put into actual use 3. to study the feasibility in the use of mediation for construction disputes in Hong Kong by reference to the experience in other countries 4. to make recommendations in the use of mediation for construction industry in Hong Kong.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Wong S.K., Leung H.F., Lau S.Y. and Wong W.S., A Survey of the Health and Safety Conditions of Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong , Building & Environment. 2007.

 

Leung H.F., Mediator in Action - Some Issues in Practice, Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors and Hong Kong Institute of Architects. 2006.

 

Leung H.F., The Development of Construction Mediation in Hong Kong, In: ASD Hong Kong, Architectural Services Department 20th Anniversary Special Issue. 2006, 2006: 60-63.

 

Leung H.F., The Practice of Mediation, Macau Housing Bureau. 2007.

 

Leung H.F., The Role of Statutes in relation to Mediation Practice, In: The Association of Continuing Professional Development, Latest Update on Dispute Resolution in the Construction Industry in Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Researcher : Li LH

Project Title:

Impact of social housings on private residential market in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Li LH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

To ascertain the effects of environmental factors (both physical and social) on the capital value levels of private housing estates; to investigate the effect, either positive or negative, of the existence of social welfare housing developments on the level of private housing values; to carry out an international survey on the empirical analyses of similar situation in other parts of the world; to analyse the result of the empirical studies on the above issue.

 

Project Title:

Community quotient and housing demand

Investigator(s):

Li LH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To compute community quotient for major private and public housing communities in Hong Kong; to assess the correlation between community quotient and housing choice and prices in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

Impact of infrastructure on property market - the case of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge

Investigator(s):

Li LH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To examine the extent to which property market in Hong Kong adjusts to possible changes to be brought about by the proposed Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

 

Project Title:

Land Price Changes in Beijing

Investigator(s):

Li LH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2005

 

Abstract:

1) To examine the changes in land price behaviour in Beijing over the last decade; 2)To examine the changes in bid rent curve in urban Beijing in the recent years and provide a rationale for these changes; Key issues and problems: 1) How to formulate an ideal reform programmes in the urban land economy in China that suit the special characteristics of this nation? 2) How should the government see their own role in the land market where they own the final legal title of all land? 3) How should land market mature in an emerging economy where uncertainties are more common to encounter than most other economies?

 

Project Title:

Innovative planning tools for urban renewal in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Li LH, Hastings EM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Public Policy Research

Start Date:

04/2006

 

Abstract:

To analyse the extent to which innovative urban planning tools such as the Land Readjustment Model(LRM) and Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) can assist the authority in formulating an effective urban renewal mechanism that can be cost-effective and will secure full and willing cooperation from the sitting tenants; to examine the policy adjustments needed for successful applications of these innovative planning tools in Hong Kong ;to apply a theoretical framework in the context of political economy to discuss how these planning tools can internalise the conflicts arising from conventional urban renewal process and how they can help minimise the transaction costs in such process to the parties involved.

 

Project Title:

Transfer of development rights - lessons from America and application in Hong Kong and other Chinese cities

Investigator(s):

Li LH

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Fulbright Hong Kong Scholar Programme

Start Date:

06/2006

Completion Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

This project aims at examining the overall mechanism of Transfer of Development Rights in America (in particular in the State of Maryland). The examination includes an understanding of the historical background, variations of TDR models and legal framework required.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Li L.H., Yao Y. and Li X., Managing Shanghai’s urban land market – the dynamic of the Chinese transitional economy, Journal of US-China Public Administration. 2006, Vol. 2, No. 8 (Serial No. 9).

 

Li L.H., Value of Stigma – Impact of Social Housing on Private Neighbourhood, In: The American Appraisal Association, The Appraisal Journal. America, 2006, Vol. LXXIII , No. 3: 305-317.

 

Walker R.M. and Li L.H., Institutional Reform in the Provision of Public Services in Hong Kong: an efficiency evaluation, Environment and Planning C: Government and Policy. UK, Pion Ltd, 2006, 597–614.

 

Researcher : Li X

List of Research Outputs

 

Li L.H., Yao Y. and Li X., Managing Shanghai’s urban land market – the dynamic of the Chinese transitional economy, Journal of US-China Public Administration. 2006, Vol. 2, No. 8 (Serial No. 9).

 

Researcher : Li YM

List of Research Outputs

 

Li Y.M., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Voice and dollar: an empirical study on the correlation between about environmental complaints and residential prices in Hong Kong, The 14th Annual European Real Estate Society (ERES) Conference. London, 2007.

 

Researcher : Liu AMM

Project Title:

The impact of organizational culture on organizational effectiveness: a study of Chinese contractors

Investigator(s):

Liu AMM, Fellows RF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To formulate a theoretical framework that examines how organizational culture influences the behaviour of the organization's members and, accordingly, the organizational effectiveness - as the final outcome; examine the culture profile of Chinese contractors; to examine the culture profile of Chinese contractors; to investigate the organizational effectiveness of those Contractors; to determine any relationships between these two organizational variables.

 

 

Project Title:

Effect of work empowerment on commitment of project participants in construction

Investigator(s):

Liu AMM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2005

 

Abstract:

KEY ISSUE: In the Hong Kong environment where the economic, political and social systems have been changing, the workforce faces dynamism with relatively unpredictable outcomes that might deter their commitment to their organizations, e.g. when will I lose my job; when will I face a salary cut; when will I be asked to undertake more overtime without pay etc.? Even the apparent economic recovery has been viewed with skepticism. The construction industry has faced a major downturn with lower/decreased property prices in the last few years. It is timely to investigate organisational commitment levels of project participants in the construction industry and to investigate the antecedents to commitment and organisational effectiveness. The key issue is to examine if effectiveness of the porject organization can be improved by increasing project participants’ commitment through work empowerment. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: Since employees’ commitment contribute to organisational effectiveness, it is desirable for the construction project participants to investigate means of sustaining organisational commitment; hence, the research objectives are: 1. To investigate project participants' perceived means and levels of work empowerment in the various organisational types where they are employed. 2. To examine whether work empowerment is an antecedent of organisational commitment in construction projects. 3. To explore if the above antecedent, if exists, is applicable beyond HKSAR, i.e. whether HK is increasingly pulsing in tune with the mainland, or vice-versa, so much that project participants' behavioural patterns are similar. PROBLEMS: Both commitment and work empowerment are alleged to be attributable to organizational effectiveness. In the context of the construction industry, the research problems are: (1) what are the factors that contribute to commitment? (2) can work empowerment increase commitment? (3) what is the relationship between work empowerment and commitment? (4) can we increase commitment through work empowerment in order to imporve organizational effectiveness in the construction industry? Commitment to an organization reflects the relative strength of an individual’s identification with and involvement in that organization (Steers 1977). However, some theorists suggest that a high level of commitment may not be beneficial to an organization. High levels of commitment, especially continuance commitment, may hinder/limit opportunities for mobility and may result in unquestioning obedience that may suppress creativity and innovation (Suliman and Iles, 1999). Allen and Meyer (1990) identify 19 variables as antecedents to different types of commitment but the 19 variables are, arguably, similar to the dimensions of work empowerment, including opportunity (Kirkman and Rosen 1999), information (Lawler 1992), support (Spreitzer 1996) and resources (Kanter 1977). It is generally agreed that work empowerment brings about effectiveness in an organization (Kanter 1983) but the link between these two concepts are intuitively perceived. Organizational effectiveness is measured in terms of productivity (Kirkman and Rosen 1999), quality (Cohen, Ledford and Spreitzer 1996), job satisfaction and organizational commitment (Wilson and Laschinger 1994, Locke, Schweiger and Latham, 1986, Tao, Takagi, Ishida and Masuda,1998). Empowerment is one of the means to maintain the internal consistency of an organisation to accomplish objectives and productivity. Empowered individuals have control over opportunities, information, support and resources, thus, organizational effectiveness is improved through individuals' motivation and power sharing/amassing with others. RATIONALE: Work empowerment is referred as a motivational construct (Conger and Kanungo 1988) while commitment is regarded as a measures of organisational effectiveness (Laschinger 1996) whereby the willingness of social actors (the project participants) to give their energy and loyalty to the social system (organization) is defined (Kanter 1968). A consequence of specialisation in the construction industry is the dependencies of the activities and the necessary integration to obtain the desired construction output. Such integration leads to power structuring in project organization due to the dependencies. However, such structuring is dynamic in construction projects and so, the shifting multi-goal coalition which results reflects the changing power structure of the main actors (Walker and Newcombe 2000). Emerson (1962) proposed a model of social exchanges via analysis of power differentials and dependencies between people. Clearly, power imbalances are not always equalised. Generally, the greater the dependency, the greater the power of the agent. Contrary to the Machiavellian approach, modern management literature suggests the practice of empowerment (e.g. Kanter 1983). Empowerment is the act of strengthening an individual’s beliefs in his/her sense of effectiveness – a process of changing the internal beliefs of people (Conger and Kanungo 1988) or self efficacy (see Bandura 1986 on social cognitive theory for self efficacy). The sense of powerlessness maximises feelings of inadequacy and lower self-confidence which, in turn, lessen motivation and effectiveness (Conger 1989) and may reduce the sense of organisational commitment. REFERENCES: Allen N.J., Meyer J.P. (1996), Affective, continuance and normative commitment ot the organisation: an examination of construct validity. Journal of vocational behaviour. 49, 3, 252-276 Bandura A. (1986) Social foundations of thought and action: a social cognitive theory, Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Cohen S.G., Ledford G.E., Spreitzer G.M. (1996), A predictive model of self managing work team effectiveness. Human Relations. 49, 5, 643-676 Conger J.A. (1989), Leadership: the art of empowering others. Academy of Management Executive,(3) 1, 17-24 Conger J.A., Kanungo R.N. (1988), The empowerment process: integrating theory and practice. Academy of Management Review, (13) 3, pp 471-482 Emerson, R. M. (1962) Power-dependence relations, American Socialogical Review, 27, 31-40. Kanter R.M. (1983), The Change Masters. New York: Simon and Schuster. Kanter R.M.(1977), Men and women of the corporation. New York: Basic Books Kirkman B.L., Rosen B. (1999), Beyond self management: antecedents and consequences of team empowerment. Academy of Management Journal. 42, 1, 58-74 Laschinger H.K.S. (1996), A theoretical approach to studying work empowerment in nursing: a review of studies testing Kanter’s theory of structural power in organisations. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 20 (2), 25-41 Lawler E.J. (1992), Affective attachment to nested groups: a choice process theory. American Sociological Review.57, 3, 327-339 Locke E.A., Schweiger D.M., Latham G.P., (1986), Participation in decision making: when should it be used? Organisational Dynamics.14, 4, 65-79 Spreitzer G.M. (1996), Social structural characteristics of psychological empowerment. Academy of Management Journal. 39, 2, 483-504 Steers R.M. (1977), Antecedents and outcomes and organsiational commitment. Administrative Science Quarterly. 22, 1, 46-56 Suliman A., Iles P., (1999), Is continuance commitment beneficial to organizations? Commitment-performance relationship: a new look. Journal of Managerial Psychology. 15, 5, 407-426 Tao M., Takagi H., Ishida M., Masuda K. (1998), A study of antecedents of organisational commitment. Japanese Psychological Research.4, 4, 198-205 Walker, A., Newcombe, R. (2000) The positive use of power on a major construction project. Construction management and Economics; London, Jan/Feb. Wilson B., Laschinger H.K. (1994), Staff nurse perception of job empowerment and organisational commitment: a test of Kanter’s theory of structural power in organizations. Journal of Nursing Administration. 24, 4, 39-47

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., Behaviours of People as an Organisational Citizen, Proceedings, CIB Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 26-29 Nov. 2006, The British University in Dubai, UAE; CIB TG 23; Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Engineering in Loughborough University, UK.. 2006.

 

Fellows R.F., Liu A.M.M. and Cheng C.W.M., Impact of Organizational Culture on the Implementation of Total Quality Management in Construction Firms , Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors Congress. Auckland, NZ, 2007, CD-Rom.

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., New Directions in International Joint Ventures for Construction: Theory and Practice”, Proceedings. Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Venture for Construction Works. Hanoi, Vietnam, 28-29 Sept 2006. Kyoto University, University of Transportation and Communications, Asian Institute of Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, National University of Singapore. Hanoi, Vietnam, 2006.

 

Fellows R.F. and Liu A.M.M., Values and Sustainability: determination, stability and impacts , International Conference on Whole Life Urban Sustainability and its Assessment. 2007, CD-Rom.

 

Fellows R.F., Liu A.M.M. and Chiu W.M., Work Empowerment as an Antecedent to Organisational Commitment in the Hong Kong Quantity Surveying Profession, Surveying and Built Environment. 2006, 17: 63-72.

 

Liu A.M.M., Member of the International Scientific Committee, “New Directions in International Joint Ventures for Construction: Theory and Practice”. Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Venture for Construction Works. Hanoi, Vietnam, 28-29 Sept 2006. Kyoto University, University of Transportation and Communications, Asian Institute of Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, National University of Singapore. 2006.

 

Liu A.M.M., Member of the International Scientific Committee, “Sustainable Development through culture and innovation”, Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. ORgansied by the CIB (International Council for Research and Innovation in Buidling and Construction, the British University in Dubai UAE, and the Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Engineering, Loughborough University, UK. 26 - 29 Nov. 2006. 2006.

 

Liu A.M.M., Member of the Paper Review Panel, “Fifth China Urban Housing Conference” Centre for Housing Innovations. The Chinese University of Hong Kong. 24 – 26 Nov., 2005. Hong Kong, 2006.

 

Liu A.M.M. and Fellows R.F., Work empowerment as an antecedent of organizational commitment in the Hong Kong quantity surveying profession, Proceedings, CIB Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 26-29 Nov. 2006, The British University in Dubai, UAE; CIB TG 23; Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Engineering in Loughborough University, UK.. 2006.

 

Wu J. and Liu A.M.M., A Study on the Relationship between Organizational Commitment and job Performance in Chinese Construction Firms, Proceedings, 22nd ARCOM Conference. 4-6 Sept. 2006. Association of Researchers in Construction Management and the University of Birmingham . United Kingdom, 2006.

 

Wu J. and Liu A.M.M., The relationship between organizational commitment and organizational learning in Chinese construction firms, Proceedings. Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Venture for Construction Works. “New Directions in International Joint Ventures for Construction: Theory and Practice”. Hanoi, Vietnam, 28-29 Sept 2006. Kyoto University, University of Transportation and Communications, Asian Institute of Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, National University of Singapore. Hanoi, Vietnam, 2006.

 

Researcher : McKinnell KG

Project Title:

Commercial property cycles in China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG, Robinson J, Wu H, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To obtain a better understanding of the defining characteristics and underlying mechanisms of cyclical fluctuations in the commercial property market system in China in the context of a unique socio-economic transition.

 

Project Title:

The Impact of Corporate Governance Structures on the Relationship between Direct and Indirect Real Estate in the People's Republic of China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2005

 

Abstract:

Aim: To investigate whether corporate governance structures affect the linkage between direct and indirect real estate in the People’s Republic of China. Reasons for undertaking the project: 1)While both the economy and the real estate industry have expanded substantially and rapidly in China over recent years, little is known about the direct and indirect real estate markets and whether there is any linkage. 2) Recent events such as the stock manipulations by a tycoon in Shanghai have raised concerns over the effectiveness of corporate governance in China’s stock markets. 3) The lack of research in this area will considerably hinder the development of the real estate market in China into one that is sufficiently mature to attract international investors. Key issues and problems: 1) Compare the corporate governance structures (e.g. listing rules, disclosure requirements, accounting systems, and ownership structures) of the stock markets in Mainland China and Hong Kong. 2) Identify companies that 1) are listed in Mainland China or Hong Kong and 2) have a core business in real estate investment in Mainland China. 3) Examine the linkage between the performance of direct real estate investment in Mainland China’s property markets and those identified property companies using such methods as correlation analysis, the Granger causality test, and variance decomposition. 4) Test whether the differences in corporate governance structures lead to a stronger direct-indirect linkage for Hong Kong-listed companies over those listed on the Mainland stock exchanges. (

 

Project Title:

The impact of corporate governance structures on the relationship between direct and indirect real estate in the People's Republic of China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG, Chau KW, Li LH, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2006

 

Abstract:

(1) Aim: To investigate whether corporate governance structures affect the linkage between direct and indirect real estate in the People's Republic of China. (2) Reasons for undertaking the project: - While both the economy and the real estate industry have expanded substantially and rapidly in China over recent years, little is known about the direct and indirect real estate markets and whether there is any linkage. - Recent events such as the stock manipulations by a tycoon in Shanghai have raised concerns over the effectiveness of corporate governance in China's stock markets. - The lack of research in this area will considerably hinder the development of the real estate market in China into one that is sufficiently mature to attract international investors.(3)Key issues and problems: - Compare the corporate governance structures (e.g. listing rules, disclosure requirements, accounting systems, and ownership structures) of the stock markets in Mainland China and Hong Kong. - Identify companies that 1) are listed in Mainland China or Hong Kong and 2) have a core business in real estate investment in Mainland China. - Examine the linkage between the performance of direct real estate investment in Mainland China's property markets and those identified property companies using such methods as correlation analysis, the Granger causality test, and variance decomposition. - Test whether the differences in corporate governance structures lead to a stronger direct-indirect linkage for Hong Kong-listed companies over those listed on the Mainland stock exchanges. (4)Significance and implications: - The research will provide significant insights into the structure and dynamics of the direct and indirect real estate markets in China for both researchers and investors. - The research will shed light on the question as to whether investing in listed real estate companies is a good substitute for direct real estate investment in China. This question becomes increasingly important to international investors and regulators, given the recent development of REITs in other parts of Asia and thus the anticipated international real estate funds management opportunities in China in the near future. - The research will open up a new research area on price discovery and liquidity in emerging real estate markets such as China.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Newell G.J., Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and McKinnell K.G., Factors influencing the performance of Hong Kong property companies, Journal of Real Estate Portfolio Management. 2007, 13(1): 75-86.

 

Researcher : Mckinnell KG

Project Title:

Commercial property cycles in China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG, Robinson J, Wu H, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To obtain a better understanding of the defining characteristics and underlying mechanisms of cyclical fluctuations in the commercial property market system in China in the context of a unique socio-economic transition.

 

Project Title:

The Impact of Corporate Governance Structures on the Relationship between Direct and Indirect Real Estate in the People's Republic of China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2005

 

Abstract:

Aim: To investigate whether corporate governance structures affect the linkage between direct and indirect real estate in the People’s Republic of China. Reasons for undertaking the project: 1)While both the economy and the real estate industry have expanded substantially and rapidly in China over recent years, little is known about the direct and indirect real estate markets and whether there is any linkage. 2) Recent events such as the stock manipulations by a tycoon in Shanghai have raised concerns over the effectiveness of corporate governance in China’s stock markets. 3) The lack of research in this area will considerably hinder the development of the real estate market in China into one that is sufficiently mature to attract international investors. Key issues and problems: 1) Compare the corporate governance structures (e.g. listing rules, disclosure requirements, accounting systems, and ownership structures) of the stock markets in Mainland China and Hong Kong. 2) Identify companies that 1) are listed in Mainland China or Hong Kong and 2) have a core business in real estate investment in Mainland China. 3) Examine the linkage between the performance of direct real estate investment in Mainland China’s property markets and those identified property companies using such methods as correlation analysis, the Granger causality test, and variance decomposition. 4) Test whether the differences in corporate governance structures lead to a stronger direct-indirect linkage for Hong Kong-listed companies over those listed on the Mainland stock exchanges. (

 

Project Title:

The impact of corporate governance structures on the relationship between direct and indirect real estate in the People's Republic of China

Investigator(s):

McKinnell KG, Chau KW, Li LH, Wong SK

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2006

 

Abstract:

(1) Aim: To investigate whether corporate governance structures affect the linkage between direct and indirect real estate in the People's Republic of China. (2) Reasons for undertaking the project: - While both the economy and the real estate industry have expanded substantially and rapidly in China over recent years, little is known about the direct and indirect real estate markets and whether there is any linkage. - Recent events such as the stock manipulations by a tycoon in Shanghai have raised concerns over the effectiveness of corporate governance in China's stock markets. - The lack of research in this area will considerably hinder the development of the real estate market in China into one that is sufficiently mature to attract international investors.(3)Key issues and problems: - Compare the corporate governance structures (e.g. listing rules, disclosure requirements, accounting systems, and ownership structures) of the stock markets in Mainland China and Hong Kong. - Identify companies that 1) are listed in Mainland China or Hong Kong and 2) have a core business in real estate investment in Mainland China. - Examine the linkage between the performance of direct real estate investment in Mainland China's property markets and those identified property companies using such methods as correlation analysis, the Granger causality test, and variance decomposition. - Test whether the differences in corporate governance structures lead to a stronger direct-indirect linkage for Hong Kong-listed companies over those listed on the Mainland stock exchanges. (4)Significance and implications: - The research will provide significant insights into the structure and dynamics of the direct and indirect real estate markets in China for both researchers and investors. - The research will shed light on the question as to whether investing in listed real estate companies is a good substitute for direct real estate investment in China. This question becomes increasingly important to international investors and regulators, given the recent development of REITs in other parts of Asia and thus the anticipated international real estate funds management opportunities in China in the near future. - The research will open up a new research area on price discovery and liquidity in emerging real estate markets such as China.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Newell G.J., Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and McKinnell K.G., Factors influencing the performance of Hong Kong property companies, Journal of Real Estate Portfolio Management. 2007, 13(1): 75-86.

 

Researcher : Newell GJ

List of Research Outputs

 

Newell G.J., Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and McKinnell K.G., Factors influencing the performance of Hong Kong property companies, Journal of Real Estate Portfolio Management. 2007, 13(1): 75-86.

 

Researcher : Ng FF

Project Title:

Impact of knowledge reuse on the effectiveness of collaborative work in construction

Investigator(s):

Ng FF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To investigate the impact of knowledge reuse on the effectiveness of collaborative work in construction.

 

Project Title:

Exploring the knowledge orientation and learning landscape of organizations in the construction industry

Investigator(s):

Ng FF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The objective of this research is to explore the diversity and complexity of knowledge orientation and learning landscape of organizations in the construction industry. So far, similar researches in the construction industry have been limited. This research will attempt to analyze the current knowledge practices and management from an organizational learning perspective.

 

Project Title:

Information cultures of business oganizations in the construction industry

Investigator(s):

Ng FF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

02/2007

 

Abstract:

The objective of this research is to explore how different information cultures are structured and their impact on organizational learning and performance of companies in the construction industry. Information culture is about the roles of information as a resource, evaluated through its use in different business processes, such as strategic planning, marketing and production. It is also about gaining access to the knowledge held by individuals in the organization, since those individuals are the 'knowledge processors' of the organization. Discovering what people know and incorporating that knowledge into the strategic planning process is especially difficult. In this study, information culture will be reviewed by looking at aspects of the information environment and the learning organization, and how information is communicated in different business processes.

 

Researcher : Ng HF

List of Research Outputs

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Researcher : Poon SW

Project Title:

Safety assessment of falsework construction in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Poon SW, Fellows RF

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To analyse the procedural causes of falsework failures; to determine the impact of procedural errors on safety of the falsework; to compare the effectiveness of different control systems on the design and construction of falsework; to develop a model to assess the safety condition of the falsework at different stages.

 

 

Project Title:

Effectiveness of construction safety measures

Investigator(s):

Poon SW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The construction accident rate in Hong Kong had been topped during mid-nineties and since then various safety measures such as mandatory training for workers, submission of site safety supervision plan, operation of safety management system and lately developers' initiative to pay for safety scheme have been implemented. These measures should contribute or should have contributed to the lowering of the accident rate from the peak of over 300 accidents per 1000 workers per annum to less than 100 per 1000 workers lately. This research study will examine the impact of implementing various safety mesaures in the Hong Kong construction industry. A ranking list of the measures will be derived.

 

Project Title:

Sustainable construction for quarries in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Poon SW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

Quarries have been in existence and in operation in Hong Kong since 1840s. As reported, six out of twenty villages with a workforce of 1,655, i.e. 20% of the population, were involved in rock quarrying, The quarried materials were used for construction work in Hong Kong and for export to nearby cities in China, and as far away as the Netherlands. At present only three quarries remain in operation and produce half of the amount needed in the territory. The rest is supplied by quarries in Zhuhai, Shenzhen and Macao. During the last hundred and fifty years, the management of quarries has been changing signficantly in the methods of rock breaking, management of the operations, method of levy, safety supervision and more importantly in the restoration of the quarried area as a response to the legislation requirements in the nineteen nineties. In recent years sustainable development has received much attention not just because of the need for the construction industry to satisfy the environmental protection requirements but to ensure the future generations can enjoy the same degree of quality of life as a result of construction activites. However, the operation of quarries will always lead to significant permanent damages in the environment, yet the assessment of quarrying operations in Hong Kong conforming to sustainable construction remains untouched. Kibert of University of California in 1996 proposed a set of principles, for sustainable construction, which includes conservation, reuse, renew/recycle, nature protection, non-toxics, economics and quality environment. A conceptual model for sustainable construction was also derived. The purpose of this research is to apply Kibert's model to assess the quarrying work in Hong Kong.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Poon S.W., Lectures on "Construction Project Management" , Supplementary Training for HKIE and CIOB. 2006.

 

Poon S.W., Research on Safety Management of Falsework Scaffolding, Formwork and Falsework Scaffolding Professional Committee, The China Construction Institution. 2006.

 

Yu H. and Poon S.W., Research on Safety management of Falsework Scaffolding , Proceedings of Annual Conference of Formwork and Falsework Scaffolding Professional Committee, The China Construction Institution . 2006, 400-407.

 

Researcher : Pretorius FIH

 

Project Title:

An empirical investigation into project finance (PF) arrangements in bank-dominated financial systems

Investigator(s):

Pretorius FIH, Chau KW, Hsu BFC

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2003

 

Abstract:

To test empirically selected realtionships surrounding PF arrangements in Asian developing countries, focusing on two phenomena: the financial structure of PFs (specially the level of debt), and transaction costs of PF arrangements when legal, regulatory and political institutions are underdeveloped. Two questions are to be addressed empirically: 1) is the institutional and informational infrastructure in transition economies stable enough to finance a project through PF arrangements? 2) Can the specially designed institutions and additional financial intermediaries control the transaction costs of PF arrangements in poor institutional environment?

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Arner D.W., Booth C., Hsu B.F.C., Lejot P.L., Liu Q. and Pretorius F.I.H., Property Rights, Collateral And Creditor Rights In East Asia, In: Ismail Dalla, East Asia Finance Selected Issues. U.S.A., The World Bank, 2007, 1-42.

 

Hsu B.F.C., Arner D.W. and Pretorius F.I.H., Beyond The Basel Accord: Should The Capital Adequacy Ratio Take Account Of The Real Estate Environment In The Hong Kong SAR, In: Steven Meyerowitz, The Banking Law Journal. U.S.A., A.S. Pratt & Sons, 2007, 124:4: 297-308.

 

Lejot P.L., Arner D.W. and Pretorius F.I.H., Institutional Reform and Economic Development, In: Douglas Arner, Paul Lejot, Jae-Ha Park, Qiao Liu, Asia's Debt Capital Markets: Prospects And Strategies For Development. New York, NY, USA, Springer, 2006, 24.

 

Lejot P.L., Arner D.W. and Pretorius F.I.H., Promoting Market Development with Structured Finance and Regional Credit Enhancement, In: Douglas Arner, Paul Lejot, Jae-Ha Park, Qiao Liu, Asia's Debt Capital Markets: Prospects And Strategies For Development. New York, NY, USA, Springer, 2006, 26.

 

Pretorius F.I.H., Lejot P.L. and Loo G., Politics, Institutions and Project Finance: The Dabhol Power Project , Asia Case Research Centre. Hong Kong, The Business School, The University of Hong Kong, 2006, Ref: 07/335C.

 

Pretorius F.I.H. and Ho M., Public-Private Partnerships: The London Underground, Asia Case Research Centre, School of Business, The University of Hong Kong. . School of Business, The University of Hong Kong, 2007, Ref: 07/334C.

 

Pretorius F.I.H. and Ho M., Refinancing the Western Harbour Crossing, Hong Kong, Asia Case Research Centre. Hong Kong, School of Business, The University of Hong Kong., 2006, Ref: 07/331C.

 

Pretorius F.I.H. and Ho M., Shui On: Branding Real Estate for Sustainable Growth in China, , FocusAsia: Business Leaders Series, Asia Case Research Centre. . Hong Kong, Business School, The University of Hong Kong, 2006, RefCSVS/103C.

 

Researcher : Rowlinson SM

Project Title:

Improving safety in Hong Kong's construction industry through the use of behavioural techniques

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Occupational Safety and Health Council - Research Grant Projects

Start Date:

09/1995

 

Abstract:

To introduce BM techniques to various Hong Kong contractors and assist them to implement such techniques on Hong Kong construction sites. The research output of this work will be to incorporate and compare the results of the contractor-based studies with the Department of Surveying's own results.

 

Project Title:

A transaction cost framework for optimal organisation of construction projects

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM, Chau KW, Lai LWC

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

This research seeks to explore the transaction cost impact within the supply chains that may be observed on large projects. The aim is to develop a sustainable framework which will assess and facilitate optimum organisation of firms to reduce transaction costs in the construction supply chain without detriment to other project aims, e.g. time, quality, safety, etc.

 

Project Title:

Value in project delivery systems: facilitating a change in culture

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To examine how relational contracting can be moved down the value chain.

 

Project Title:

Job burnout and construction project performance

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM, Phua FTT, Kvan T

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To determine the degree of burnout in the construction industry; to identify the sources and consequences of burnout among construction professionals in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

The impact of culture on project performance: an international comparison

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM, Phua FTT

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To conduct an international comparison based on the development of a framework within which the determinants of performance in project teams can be assessed. The methodology currently being pursued allows for the testing of the proposition that national and organisational cultures, organisational structing, collaboration and commitment all interact to produce a project culture (see, for example, Phua, 2002 and Shields & West, 2003).

 

Project Title:

The impact of culture on project performance

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM, Phua FTT, Kumaraswamy MM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop and test a framework within which the determinants of performance in project teams can be assessed; to investigate how such a culture may be developed and enhanced by considering, at project outset, the set of team characteristics; to understand how collaborative culture acts as a catalyst for improved project performance is to assess what vital characteristics of those collaborative practices at the project level that are associated with the production of innovations that lead to new understandings, negotiations, norms and practices.

 

Project Title:

Construction undergraduates' experiences of burnout

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Run Run Shaw Research and Teaching Endowment Fund - Teaching Grants

Start Date:

02/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop a research framework to determine the degree of burnout experienced by construction undergraduates in Hong Kong, in particular the extent to which those students have been engaged in paid employment during the period of their studies. There is inicreasing evidence suggesting that semester-time paid work undertaken by university students has a detrimental impact upon their studies and well-being (Hansen and Jarvis, 2000). However, little work has been done aimed at identifying the underlying cause of these problems.

 

Project Title:

Organisational risk perspecitves and risk management: from theory to practice

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

02/2006

 

Abstract:

This research aims to: establish the nature of risk culture; enhance understanding of the concepts of risk and culture; develop methodologies to study organisations at a distance; and benchmark organisation risk perceptions across sectors and national boundaries This research builds on existing research output in the field of health and safety management but addresses a fundamental issue, risk perception, which has a profound effect on the development and management of organisational safety culture and safety climate. Increasing emphasis has been put on health and safety objectives within organisations and, in particular, on developing a safety culture and a safety climate. However, much of this work has been pushed forward without going back to the very basics of risk, its perception and management, and its impact upon safety performance. Safety management is basically a domain bound concept whereas risk is pervasive across the whole organisation. Therefore, risk perception is the basic starting point for improving health and safety management. As such, it is important to study and define an organisation’s risk culture before moving on to define and mould its safety culture and safety climate. Currently, our understanding of the concepts of risk and culture are somewhat fuzzy. This research aims to put these issues into sharp focus. Currently, the concept of risk is undergoing considerable investigation in many fields. It is variously addressed by formulating the concept under, inter alia, risk-management, risk perception, risk taking and risk decision-making. This research aims to conceptualise and define risk perception within the organisational context. The research proposed here will improve our understanding of this concept and integrate the different and divergent conceptualisations which currently exist and which can be characterised on a spectrum of approaches from psychometric through to cultural theory. The research will provide a sound basis for conceptualising risk in organisations and within different cultural contexts and provide the opportunity to develop valid methodologies to manage risk in a manner which deals with health and safety issues, such as culture and climate, from a grounded perspective taking into account not just culture and perceptions but also industry and organisational contexts. Thus, a contribution will be made in terms of both theory and practice. This proposed project forms part of an international cluster of projects and so the synergy which can be developed from this research is extensive and the potential for broad ranging, high impact results is high.

 

Project Title:

Organisational risk perspectives and risk management: impact on safety and health management

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM, Poon SW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

(1) Establish the nature of risk culture This research builds on existing research output in the field of health and safety management but addresses a fundamental issue, risk perception, which has a profound effect on the development and management of organizational safety culture and safety climate. Increasing emphasis has been put on health and safety objectives within organizations and, in particular, on developing a safety culture and as safety climate. However, much of this work has been pushed forward without going back to the very basics of risk, its perception and management, and its impact upon safety performance. Safety management is basically a domain bound concept whereas risk is pervasive across the whole organization. Therefore, risk perception is the basic starting point for improving health and safety management. As such, it is important to study and define an organisation’s risk culture before moving on to define and mould its safety culture and safety climate. (2) Enhance understanding of the concepts of risk and culture Currently, our understanding of the concepts of risk and culture are somewhat fuzzy. This research aims to put these issues into sharp focus. At the moment, the concept of risk is undergoing considerable investigation in many fields. It is variously addressed by formulating the concept under, inter alia, risk-management, risk perception, risk taking and risk decision-making. This research aims to conceptualise and define risk perception within the organizational context. The research proposed here will improve our understanding of this concept and integrate the different and divergent conceptualizations which currently exist and which can be characterized on a spectrum of approaches from psychometric through to cultural theory. The research will provide a sound basis for conceptualizing risk in organizations and within different cultural contexts and provide the opportunity to develop valid methodologies to manage risk in a manner which deals with health and safety issues, such as culture and climate, from a grounded perspective taking into account not just culture and perceptions but also industry and organizational contexts. (3) Benchmark organisation risk perceptions across sectors and national boundaries Scales have been developed under three main headings: safety climate; risk perception and risk management The safety climate items are for use with employees, while the risk perception and risk management items are for use with managers at all levels. The results of the research will be fed back to managers and the effects of the risk perception and management on the safety climate perceived by employees will be explored in the participating organisations. This will provide a valuable benchmarking exercise for the organisations and provide them with an opportunity to explore new directions in order to improve performance.

 

Project Title:

Valuation of Sustainable Practices in the Built Environment

Investigator(s):

Rowlinson SM

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

02/2007

 

Abstract:

The aim of the project is to develop and test a framework within which the criteria for successful sustainable practices can be assessed. This project will contribute to the research of sustainability with further understanding of different approaches to sustainability. The methodology proposed allows for the testing of the proposition that mindsets, organisational structure, regulations and financial resources all interact to influence the consequences of the uptake of sustainable practices and the choice of approaches to sustainability. Previous research indicates that change concepts are largely affected by cultural aspects (see Abrahamson 1996 for example). This project will explore how organisations in the built environment sector in three diverse cultures (Australia, Hong Kong and Sweden) engage and invest in sustainable practices. Scholars within the field of sustainability often complain about how difficult it is to get things done and how slow progress is. Organisations do not adopt sustainable practices fast or well enough. This project departs from the idea that the perceived slow progress partly depends on the characteristics of sustainability itself. There are arguably different approaches to sustainability among researchers and practitioners. Our study will further define and explore the different approaches to sustainability and in doing so facililtate a more focused approach to the study of sustainability related issues.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Rowlinson S.M., Book review: Infrastructure for the built environment, Rodney Howes and Herbert Robinson, for Construction Management & Economics, 2006, 2006.

 

Rowlinson S.M., Jefferies, M.C., Brewer, G., Rowlinson, S., Cheung, Y.K.F. and Satchell A. 'Project Alliances in the Australian Construction Industry: A Case Study of a Water Treatment Project', Proceedings of CIB W092 International Symposium on 'Sustainability and Value through Construction Procurement', Manchester, UK, 29th November-2nd December, 2006. 274-285.

 

Rowlinson S.M., Jefferies, M.C., Rowlinson, S. and Cheung, Y.K.F. (2006). 'Relationship Management in the Australian Construction Industry: A Catalyst for Cultural Change', Proceedings of the Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation, and Management (CCIM), Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, 26th-29th November, 2006. 474-483.

 

Rowlinson S.M., Keynote address, CIB W92 International Symposium on ‘Sustainability and Value through Construction Procurement’, Manchester, UK, 29th November-2nd December, 2006., 2006.

 

Rowlinson S.M. and Croker N., The temporal nature of forces acting on Innovative IT in major construction projects, Construction Management and Economics. United Kingdom, 2006.

 

Yip L.P. and Rowlinson S.M., Coping Strategies among Construction Professionals: Cognitive and Behavioural Efforts to manage Job Stressors., Journal for Education in the Built Environment. UK, 2006, 1(2): 70-79.

 

Researcher : Walker RM

Project Title:

Strategic research areas: theme on social and public policy

Investigator(s):

Walker RM, Lai LWC, Thomas ND, Curley MG, Siu AKF, Chan JCW

Department:

Ctr of Urban Planning & Env Mangt

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme

Start Date:

05/2005

 

Abstract:

Social and public policy themes are important at the global, national, regional and local levels. To understand why specific issues enter onto the policy agenda, why some policies are implemented and not others, and the consequences of policies requires an understanding of the overall context within which policies are implemented and why responses to particular problems were chosen.

 

Project Title:

New Institutional Economics and urban Chinese housing markets: a review and case study of Wuhan

Investigator(s):

Walker RM, Ma L

Department:

Ctr of Urban Planning & Env Mangt

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2006

Completion Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

The purpose of the investigation is to: (a) make a first time application of new institutional economics (NIE) to Chinese urban housing markets; (b) use NIE to understand processes of reform and impact in Chinese urban housing markets; (c) explore the utility of a theory-led evluation framework for the analysis of resturcturing in Chinese urban housing markets; (d) develop new evidence and datasets in a case study of Wuhan; and (e) contribute towards theoretical, empirical and policy debates on institutional reform in urban China through the findings of this theoretically-led evaluation. The project addresses two central issues within the literature, one conceptual the second methodological: 1. New Institutional Economics, that is theories of property rights (Barxel, 1997; Webster and Lai, 2003), transaction costs (Williamson, 1975) and public choice (Down, 1967; Niskanen, 1971), suggests itself as a conceptual framework that will be of great value in explaining and interpreting the processes of commodification in Chinese urban housing markets. It offers a lens that will explain a range of issues and problems. For example, the various 'strata' in housing markets, such as commodity housing, or partly privatised housing can be understood through a property rights lens were commodity housing offers full property rights, urban farm villages collective rights, and partial rights in partly privatized state housing. Furthermore, we can understand these 'strata' as transitional-full property rights have not yet been attained. This leads to emergent market structures and the development of new institutions, for example property management agents. A second illustrative example of how NIE offers an important insight into issues and problems comes from a public choice perspective: the ongoing change in the size and nature of city government bureaux can be seen as a response to changes in the housing market, the way in which information is available to actors in the market to exercise choice (for example transitional arrangements are emerging to arbitrate disputes between property management companies and unincorporated homeowners associations) and the power of city majors to implement new approaches. Alongside explaintions of urban housing markets the NIE perspective also allows issues of impact to be addressed, this could be city-wide changes in efficiency or responsiveness or between households accorded different property rights or to assess the impact on equity (use, access, outcome and final income) as market processes are rolled out. 2. The RGC application proposed developing a multi-site comparative case study method. Given this application is to improve upon that application, and to undertake exploratory case studies, the methodological contribution will be to implement the proposed theory-led evauation within one city (allowing vertical and horizontal comparisons within a city).

 

Researcher : Wan HHY

List of Research Outputs

 

Wan H.H.Y., Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Effects of management bodies on the building management quality of private residential buildings in Hong Kong, Surveying and Built Environment. Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, 2006, 17(2): 73-77.

 

Researcher : Wan Q

List of Research Outputs

 

Hsu B.F.C., Arner D.W. and Wan Q., Policy Functions As Law: Legislative Forbearance In China's Asset Management Companies, In: Matt Sereratto and Lillian Woung, UCLA Pacific Basin Law Journal. U.S.A., University of California, 2007, 23:2: 129-171.

 

Researcher : Wong KC

Project Title:

Assessing technological impact, quality and quantity of future office space requirements in Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Wong KC, Chau KW, Pretorius FIH, Wadu Mesthrige J, Ganesan S

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2003

Completion Date:

08/2006

 

Abstract:

To identify recent trends in space per employee (SPE) for finance, insurance and other office using sub-service sectors; to explore critical factors (including economic, structural, technological and quality related) that affect space per employee; to understand the role of SPE and other critical factors in determining the volumes of office space completions and take-up; to propose a model for estimating future office space demand of the services sector; and test it empirically.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Wadu Mesthrige J., Lau S.S.Y., Ganesan S., Wong K.C. and Chau K.W., Growth of Advanced Service Firms And Usage of Quality Office Space: The Case of Hong Kong, In: Sŏul Sirip Taehakkyo. , International Journal of Urban Sciences. Seoul, Sujeon Publishers, 2007, 11(1): 57-84.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W., Wong K.C., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Do Real Estate Prices Lead Student Quality?, American Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Wong K.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Does Student Quality Fluctuate with Real Estate Prices?, Proceeding of the 23nd Annual Meeting of the American Real Estate Society(ARES) . 2007.

 

Researcher : Wong SK

Project Title:

An analysis of real estate volatility: spot vs. pre-sales markets

Investigator(s):

Wong SK, Chau KW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

Completion Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

To examine the theoretical relationship between the spot and pre-sales housing markets; to evaluate empirically whether pre-sales raise the volatility of the spot market; to analyze the volatility spillover between the spot and pre-sales markets.

 

Project Title:

Information asymmetry in the real estate market

Investigator(s):

Wong SK, Chau KW, Yiu CY

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

Information asymmetry refers to the situation in which one party involved in a transaction possesses more information than the other. This often occurs in used-good markets because sellers have used their goods for a period of time and are generally better informed on the quality of the goods than buyers. An oft-cited example is the second-hand automobile market. Under information asymmetry, prices cannot reflect the true quality of goods, resulting in the emergence of more low-quality goods (lemons) and fewer high quality goods in the used-good market. If this process continues, lower quality goods will drive out higher quality goods, and eventually no second-hand market can exist at all. But this kind of logic seems inapplicable to the real estate market. Casual observations in Hong Kong suggest that the secondary (second-hand) real estate market not only exists, but also prevails over the primary (first-hand) real estate market, which is more information-symmetric due to the presence of guarantees, defect liability periods, and brand-names. This opens up an interesting research question that this proposal aims to answer. Specifically, the objectives of this proposal are: 1) to deduce the conditions under which high quality goods may be transacted under information asymmetry; and 2) to test whether these conditions have any effect on secondary real estate transactions.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Wong S.K., Leung H.F., Lau S.Y. and Wong W.S., A Survey of the Health and Safety Conditions of Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong , Building & Environment. 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Jin Z. and Wong S.K., Calendar Anomaly in the Hong Kong's Residential Market, The Asian Real Estate Society/AREUEA Joint Conference, July 2006 . Vancouver, Canada, 2006.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Yau Y. and Cheung A.K.C., Determining optimal building height, Urban Studies. 2007, 44(3): 591-607.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Housing Quality in the Forward Contracts Market, Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. 2007, 34: 313-325.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Repeat Sales Analysis of Seaview Value, European Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papaer Award - for a paper titled "An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papers Award: An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007, 437-445.

 

Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K., Wong W.S. and Chan Y.L., Measuring and interpreting the effects of a public-sector-led urban renewal project on housing prices - an empirical study of a comprehensive development area zone developed upon 'taking' in Hong Kong, Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design. 2007, 34: 524-538.

 

Lau S.S.Y., Li F.M., Leung D.K.C., Tang G.W.K., Baharuddin B., Ye A.M., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Compromising building regulations and user expectations in the design of high-rise domestic kitchens, Structural Survey. 2006, 24(3): 212-229.

 

Li Y.M., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W. and Wong S.K., Voice and dollar: an empirical study on the correlation between about environmental complaints and residential prices in Hong Kong, The 14th Annual European Real Estate Society (ERES) Conference. London, 2007.

 

Newell G.J., Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and McKinnell K.G., Factors influencing the performance of Hong Kong property companies, Journal of Real Estate Portfolio Management. 2007, 13(1): 75-86.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W., Wong K.C., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Do Real Estate Prices Lead Student Quality?, American Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Wong K.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Does Student Quality Fluctuate with Real Estate Prices?, Proceeding of the 23nd Annual Meeting of the American Real Estate Society(ARES) . 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Real estate spot and forward markets: first and second moments transmission, The Joint 2006 AREUEA-AsRES International Conference. Vancouver, 2006.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Volatility transmission in the real estate spot and forward markets, Proceedings of the HKU-NUS Symposium on Real Estate Research. Hong Kong, 2007, 291-306.

 

Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K. and Yau Y., Top 20 Articles - by Immediate Impact of paper titled "Property management as property rights governance - exclusion and internal conflict resolution", Property Management. Emerald, 2007, 24: 87-97.

 

Researcher : Wu J

List of Research Outputs

 

Wu J. and Liu A.M.M., A Study on the Relationship between Organizational Commitment and job Performance in Chinese Construction Firms, Proceedings, 22nd ARCOM Conference. 4-6 Sept. 2006. Association of Researchers in Construction Management and the University of Birmingham . United Kingdom, 2006.

 

Wu J. and Liu A.M.M., The relationship between organizational commitment and organizational learning in Chinese construction firms, Proceedings. Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Venture for Construction Works. “New Directions in International Joint Ventures for Construction: Theory and Practice”. Hanoi, Vietnam, 28-29 Sept 2006. Kyoto University, University of Transportation and Communications, Asian Institute of Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, National University of Singapore. Hanoi, Vietnam, 2006.

 

Researcher : Yao Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Li L.H., Yao Y. and Li X., Managing Shanghai’s urban land market – the dynamic of the Chinese transitional economy, Journal of US-China Public Administration. 2006, Vol. 2, No. 8 (Serial No. 9).

 

Researcher : Yau Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau K.W., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Wong S.K., Leung H.F., Lau S.Y. and Wong W.S., A Survey of the Health and Safety Conditions of Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong , Building & Environment. 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Yau Y. and Cheung A.K.C., Determining optimal building height, Urban Studies. 2007, 44(3): 591-607.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., A survey of sick building syndrome(SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, The 6th China Urban Housing Conference. Beijing, 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papaer Award - for a paper titled "An empirical study of unauthorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C.L.K., Best Paper Award - for a paper titled "A survey of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results", Ministry of Construction, PRC. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Wong S.K., Cheung A.K.C., Yau Y., Ng H.F. and Lam C...L...K., Best Papers Award: A survey of sick building syndrome (SBS) in private apartment buildings in Hong Kong: preliminary results , Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Chau K.W., Yau Y. and Wong S.K., Best Papers Award: An empirical study of unathorized appendages in multi-storey residential buildings in Hong Kong, Proceedings of the Sixth China Urban Housing Conference, Beijing. 2007, 437-445.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Building Quality Assessment for Sustainable Urban Development , International Networking for Young Scientists(INYS) 2007, British Council . 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Building Quality Assessment for Sustainable Urban Development, Keynote Speech, 2nd Mega-Cities International Conference, Guangzhou China. 2006.

 

Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Challenges and Opportunities in Academia, Building Surveyors Conference. 2006.

 

Hui C.M., Yiu C.Y. and Yau Y., Retail properties in Hong Kong: a rental analysis, Journal of Property Investment & Finance. 2007, 25(2): 136-146.

 

Wan H.H.Y., Ho D.C.W. and Yau Y., Effects of management bodies on the building management quality of private residential buildings in Hong Kong, Surveying and Built Environment. Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, 2006, 17(2): 73-77.

 

Yau Y., Cheuk L...L... and Yiu C.Y., Does REIT resemble property-stock or utility-stock? Empirical evidence in Hong Kong and Japan, European Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Yau Y., An ecological framework for the strategic positioning of a shopping mall, Journal of Retail & Leisure Property. UK, Palgrave Macmillan Ltd, 2006, 5(4): 270-280.

 

Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K. and Yau Y., Top 20 Articles - by Immediate Impact of paper titled "Property management as property rights governance - exclusion and internal conflict resolution", Property Management. Emerald, 2007, 24: 87-97.

 

Researcher : Yip LP

List of Research Outputs

 

Yip L.P. and Rowlinson S.M., Coping Strategies among Construction Professionals: Cognitive and Behavioural Efforts to manage Job Stressors., Journal for Education in the Built Environment. UK, 2006, 1(2): 70-79.

 

Researcher : Yiu CY

Project Title:

Benchmarking of the tenant-mix metric in shopping mall management

Investigator(s):

Yiu CY

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

Key issues and problems: Tenant mix is commonly recognized as one of the most important criteria for the success of a shopping mall. Tenant mix strategy refers to a synergy plan of optimizing the combination of different trades in a mall to attract shoppers. However, there is so far no quantifiable metric for this variable, let alone any scientific study of its effects on the shoppers' flow. All practitioners are exercising gut feelings, experience or trial-and-error in planning the tenant mix of a mall. As a result, learning and improvement by benchmarking of tenant mix becomes impossible in the industry. Consultancy studies have been called upon by several different developers, especially those are interested in REITs. The PI of this proposal has been invited to make recommendations in at least two of them, and found that such knowledge is urgently requested by the industry. The difficulty does not only lie on the lack of a quantifiable metric for tenant mix, but also of the lack of a conceptual framework for the link between tenant mix and the success of a shopping mall. The PI has therefore developed the first eco-mall model based on an ecology metaphor. This proposal therefore further works on the tenant mix by an analogy of biodiversity in ecology study. The purposes of this study are: This proposal is probably the first study on a quanitifiable tenant mix metric, which paves the road for benchmarking and further scientific study of the effects of different tenant mix schemes. The purposes of this proposal include: 1. to develop a quanitifiable metric for the tenant mix of a shopping mall; 2. to evaluate shoppers' satisfaction level on shopping malls of different tenant mix scheme; 3. to benchmark tenant mix level of shopping malls in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

The effects of socio-economic, demographic and mobility changes on housing price gradient changes between Hong Kong and Macau

Investigator(s):

Yiu CY, Wong SK, Chau KW

Department:

Real Estate & Construction

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

1. The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of socio-economic, demographic and mobility factors on housing price gradient changes between Hong Kong and Macau. To achieve this objective, a real inter-city spatial-temporal housing price contour has to be established. Correspondingly, socio-economic, demographic and mobility level contours will have to be identified. The price contour allow a spatial and temporal analysis of the change of the price gradient, which is an effective way to conduct a ceteris paribus test of the hypothesis. Private housing developments around the landing points of the HKZM Bridge and/or the CBDs of the two cities are chosen as private housing developments in the two cities provide a highly homogeneous property characteristics and districts chosen provide similar ease of transportation and level of economic activities. They also provide sufficient number of transactions or official price indices for analysis. 2. The previous CERG project has derived a multiple-workplace theoretical model and a price gradient analytical model for this purpose. A forward-contracts repeat-sale method is also developed to produce constant-quality price indices. These tools are applied to an inter-city setting with the following four key issues: (i) To estimate the housing price gradient change over time between Hong Kong and Macau empirically; (ii) to identify the socio-economic, demographic and mobility changes over time between the two cities; (iii) to study the effects of socio-economic and demongraphic changes on housing price gradient changes between the two cities, keeping transportation factor constant; and (iv) to test the hypothesis that the expected improvement in mobility across the boundary will make the housing price gradient flatter, keeping socio-economic and demographic factors constant. 3. In accomplishing the above objectives, we expect to have the following outcomes: 1. A spatial-temporal constant-quality price contour between the CBDs and/or the landing points of the HKZM Bridge of the two cities; 2. spatial-temporal socio-economic and demographic contours; 3. an urban spatial structure modeled by socio-economic and demographic factors; and 4. a test result of the hypothesis that expected improvement in factor mobility makes the price gradient flatter. 4. The study results are promising and will have long-term impact on town planning, housing and transportation policies in the coming decades. It provides a model for the evaluation of cost and benefit of mobility improvement across cities. Academically, it extends the economic study of urban spatial structure in polycentric region under the influence of decentralization of jobs.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chan A.P.C., Wong F.K.W., Chan D.W.M., Yam M.C.H., Kwok A.W.K., Yiu C.Y., Chan E.H.W., Lam E.W.M. and Cheung E., Reducing Construction Fall Accidents in the Maintenance Sector: An Industry-Based Survey from Hong Kong, CIB World Building Congress – Construction for Development. 2007.

 

Chan K.K., Wong F.K.W., Yiu C.Y., Lai J., Chung K.W. and Hui E.C.M., The Repair, Maintenance and Sustainability of Aging Residential Building Stock in Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Architects. 2007.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Housing Quality in the Forward Contracts Market, Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. 2007, 34: 313-325.

 

Chau K.W., Wong S.K. and Yiu C.Y., Repeat Sales Analysis of Seaview Value, European Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Ho D.C.W., Lo S.M. and Yiu C.Y., Performance Specifications and Testing of External Wall Tiles, Materials Science and Technology for Engineers Conference MaSTEC2007.

 

Hui C.M., Yiu C.Y. and Yau Y., Retail properties in Hong Kong: a rental analysis, Journal of Property Investment & Finance. 2007, 25(2): 136-146.

 

Lai L.W.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K., Wong W.S. and Chan Y.L., Measuring and interpreting the effects of a public-sector-led urban renewal project on housing prices - an empirical study of a comprehensive development area zone developed upon 'taking' in Hong Kong, Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design. 2007, 34: 524-538.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W., Wong K.C., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Do Real Estate Prices Lead Student Quality?, American Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Wong K.C., Chau K.W., Yiu C.Y. and Ho D.C.W., Does Student Quality Fluctuate with Real Estate Prices?, Proceeding of the 23nd Annual Meeting of the American Real Estate Society(ARES) . 2007.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Real estate spot and forward markets: first and second moments transmission, The Joint 2006 AREUEA-AsRES International Conference. Vancouver, 2006.

 

Wong S.K., Chau K.W. and Yiu C.Y., Volatility transmission in the real estate spot and forward markets, Proceedings of the HKU-NUS Symposium on Real Estate Research. Hong Kong, 2007, 291-306.

 

Yau Y., Cheuk L...L... and Yiu C.Y., Does REIT resemble property-stock or utility-stock? Empirical evidence in Hong Kong and Japan, European Real Estate Society Conference 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y., 2 speeches in the Seminar on Housing Authority’s Research and Development Work, Hong Kong Housing Authority. 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Yau Y., An ecological framework for the strategic positioning of a shopping mall, Journal of Retail & Leisure Property. UK, Palgrave Macmillan Ltd, 2006, 5(4): 270-280.

 

Yiu C.Y., Building Depreciation and Sustainable Development, In: Malcolm Hollis, Journal of Building Appraisal. UK, Palgrave macmillan, 2007, 3(2): 97-103.

 

Yiu C.Y., Building Maintenance and Sustainable Development , Vocational Training Council. 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y., Concrete Repair Strategies, Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors. 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y., Declarations Section in Policy Issues of Sustainable Built Environment Research, In: Grace KL Lee and Edwin HW Chan, International Networking for Young Scientists 2007, British Council. Hong Kong, British Council, 2007, 20-23.

 

Yiu C.Y., Lo S.M. and Ho D.C.W., Failure Probability of External Wall Tiling Systems: An Empirical Study of Weathering Impacts, In: Mike Hoxley, Structural Survey. UK, Emerald, 2006, 24(5): 397-404.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Tam C.S., Housing Price Gradient with Two Workplaces - an Empirical Study in Hong Kong, Regional Science and Urban Economics. 2007, 37: 413-429.

 

Yiu C.Y., Performance of Retail Markets and Retail REITs, Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors. 2006.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Hui E...C...M., Testing the Dividend-Ratio Model on Real Estate Asset, In: William G. Hardin III, Journal of Real Estate Practice and Education. USA, The American Real Estate Society, 2006, 9(1): 19-35.

 

Yiu C.Y., The Plague and Building Control, Historical Photo Research Competition – Open Section Champion, 鼠疫、環境衛生與建築, 歷史照片研究比賽 - 公開組 第一名, Hong Kong Museum of History and We Love Hong Kong Association. 香港歷史博物館及我愛香港協會主辦, 2007.

 

Yiu C.Y., Wong S.K. and Yau Y., Top 20 Articles - by Immediate Impact of paper titled "Property management as property rights governance - exclusion and internal conflict resolution", Property Management. Emerald, 2007, 24: 87-97.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Leung A.Y.T., Top 20 Articles - by Immediate Impact on paper titled A cost-and-benefit evaluation of housing rehabilitation, Structural Survey. Emerald, 2007, 23: 138-151.

 

Yiu C.Y. and Lo S.M., Weathering Effects on External Wall Tiling Systems, Construction and Building Materials. 2007, 21: 594-600.

 

Researcher : Yu H

List of Research Outputs

 

Yu H. and Poon S.W., Research on Safety management of Falsework Scaffolding , Proceedings of Annual Conference of Formwork and Falsework Scaffolding Professional Committee, The China Construction Institution . 2006, 400-407.

 

Researcher : Yung P

List of Research Outputs

 

Lai L.W.C., Ho D.C.W. and Yung P., Survey of the Pottinger Battery, Journal of the Hong Kong Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society. 2007, 47.



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