IMPLICATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER IN THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF LOAD-BEARING MASONRY BUILDINGS

Load-bearing or structural masonry is a method of construction where the elements of a structure are built using masonry (bricks or blocks). Due to its technological and economic advantages, in western countries the system is widely used particularly for residential and low-rise buildings. Despite the advantages and excellent track record overseas, the system has not found its avenue in the local construction scene. Not many new buildings have been built using the system. Previous studies revealed that engineers, architects, developers, and builders lacked knowledge and experience on the design and construction using the system. A programme has been formulated for a consulting firm’s staff and their business partners to transfer the state-of-the-art knowledge on the design, detailing, costing, and construction of structures using load-bearing masonry. Additionally, value added topics on supply chain, value engineering, and strategic planning were also included. The programme involved two phases: (i) a series of seminars and workshops covering a duration of 6 months and, (ii) continuous site supervision (monitoring) for another 6 months. An auditing scheme to measure the company’s performance before and after the programme using the balance score-card technique is under formulation. The technology transfer programme has been completed covering 9 modules whereby the company managed to save further on profits by utilising value engineering concepts in its relevant projects.