Staff Profiles

Books

• Keivani R, Tah J, Kurul E, Abanda H, Green jobs creation through sustainable refurbishment in developing countries, International labour organization (2010)
  ISBN: 978922123610-8
  

Journal articles

• Saeed ZO, Almukhtar A, Abanda FH, Tah JHM, 'Mosul City: Housing Reconstruction after the ISIS War.'
  Cities 120 (2021)
  ISSN: 0264-2751 eISSN: 1873-6084
  Abstract

  Post-conflict reconstruction has been one of the most challenging themes for the AEC industry, urban designers and planners, and related decision makers, especially in complex urban contexts with sever destruction of existing infrastructure. The city of Mosul in Iraq is a case where there is an urgent need for reconstruction, in particular the housing sector after the massive destruction caused by the ISIS war 2014-2017. The war left the city with massive destruction in the infrastructure and with around 1M displaced seeking shelters in the neighbouring cities, most of them under the poverty line. The governmental efforts along with the NGOs are continuing to plan the return of the displaced. However, these plans are limited by economic drivers and lack an active participation of the displaced in planning the post-war housing sector of Mosul city. This paper is part of a comprehensive research that discusses a methodological framework for the reconstruction of Mosul city, specifically the housing sector.  This study highlights the involvement of the displaced families in developing possible post-war housing paradigms based on their needs, requirements and desires. The main contributions include identifying the essential housing requirements, based on a sample from the displaced, as end-users. Most importantly, the study concludes with three developed housing paradigms.
  

  Website 
• Saeed ZO, Almukhtar A, Abanda H, Tah J, 'BIM Applications in Post-Conflict Contexts: The Reconstruction of Mosul City'
  Buildings 11 (8) (2021)
  ISSN: 2075-5309 eISSN: 2075-5309
  Abstract

  Post-conflict reconstruction has been one of the most challenging themes for the AEC industry, urban designers and planners, and related decision-makers, especially in complex urban contexts with severe destruction in terms of infrastructure. The city of Mosul in Iraq is a case where there is an urgent need for reconstruction, in particular the housing sector after the enormous destruction caused by the ISIS war of 2014–2017. Today, advanced technologies in construction present opportunities to address post-conflict reconstruction challenges. BIM has been used in recent years since it is an integrated and effective process for planning, monitoring and managing contemporary construction projects. Nevertheless, BIM has not been investigated properly in planning and managing post-conflict reconstruction, especially in developing countries. This paper discusses the potential of adopting BIM in post-conflict reconstruction through investigating the validity of the BIM process in planning and assessing possible housing solutions for the reconstruction of Mosul city, using BIM applications. The main findings suggest that BIM applications present significant potential in the process of planning, assessing and managing the reconstruction of post-conflict contexts in developing countries, where conventional methods are limited, dysfunctional and inefficient.
  

  Website 
• Oti AH, Farrell P, Abanda FH, McMahon P, Mahamadu A.-M, Mzyece D, Akintola AA, Prinja N, 'A BIM-driven framework for integrating rules and regulations in the decommissioning of nuclear power plants'
  Construction Innovation: Information, Process, Management Online first (2021)
  ISSN: 1471-4175
  Abstract

  The relative low capital cost and contributions to mitigating global warming have favoured the continuous construction and operation of nuclear power plants across the world. One critical phase in the operation of nuclear plants for ensuring safety and security of radioactive products and by-products is decommissioning. With the advent of digital twinning in the building information modelling (BIM) methodology, efficiency and safety can be improved from context-focus access to regulations pertaining demolition of structures, and cleaning-up of radioactivity inherent in nuclear stations. A BIM-driven framework to achieve a more regulation-aware and safer decommissioning of nuclear plants is proposed.

  Website 
• Almukhtar A, Saeed ZO, Abanda H, Tah JHM, 'Reality Capture of Buildings Using 3D Laser Scanners'
  CivilEng 2 (1) (2021) pp.214-235
  ISSN: 2673-4109 eISSN: 2673-4109
  Abstract

  The urgent need to improve performance in the construction industry has led to the adoption of many innovative technologies. 3D laser scanners are amongst the leading technologies being used to capture and process assets or construction project data for use in various applications. Due to its nascent nature, many questions are still unanswered about 3D laser scanning, which in turn contribute to the slow adaptation of the technology. Some of these include the role of 3D laser scanners in capturing and processing raw construction project data. How accurate are the 3D laser scanner or point cloud data? How does laser scanning fit with other wider emerging technologies such as building information modeling (BIM)? This study adopts a proof-of-concept approach, which in addition to answering the aforementioned questions, illustrates the application of the technology in practice. The study finds that the quality of the data, commonly referred to as point cloud data, is still a major issue as it depends on the distance between the target object and 3D laser scanner’s station. Additionally, the quality of the data is still very dependent on data file sizes and the computational power of the processing machine. Lastly, the connection between laser scanning and BIM approaches is still weak as what can be done with a point cloud data model in a BIM environment is still very limited. The aforementioned findings reinforce existing views on the use of 3D laser scanners in capturing and processing construction project data
  

  Website 
• Abanda FH, Sibilla M, Garstecki P, Anteneh BM , 'A literature review on BIM for cities Distributed Renewable and Interactive Energy Systems'
  International Journal of Urban Sustainable Development 13 (2) (2021) pp.214-232
  ISSN: 1946-3138 eISSN: 1946-3146
  Abstract

  The havoc caused by COVID-19 has further strengthen the case for greening cities and ensuring a quicker economic recovery much desired by various governments. To this end, the appetite for Distributed Renewable and Interactive Energy Systems (DRIES) as a preferred option to retrofit cities has grown amongst policy makers. However, DRIE sources are complex and disparate presenting challenges integrating into a unified system for urban retrofitting. Yet, integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) and DRIES provide possibilities of effective assessment. Research of BIM applications at a city level is still very sketchy talk less in the domain of DRIES. This study investigates the opportunities and barriers of the application of BIM for the performance assessment of DRIES in the context of the transforming our environments into lowcarbon cities. A systematic literature review and case study review were used to achieve the aim of this study.
  

  Website 
• Justine Flore Tchouanguem Djuedja, Fonbeyin Henry Abanda, Bernard Kamsu-Foguem, Pieter Pauwels, Camille Magniont, Mohamed Hedi Karray , 'An integrated Linked Building Data system: AEC industry case'
  Advances in Engineering Software 152 (2021)
  ISSN: 0965-9978 eISSN: 0965-9978
  Abstract

  Environmental assessment is a critical activity for ensuring buildings are performing according to specified requirements, and efficient, seamless exchange of building information is crucial for environmental assessment. Therefore, all those involved in built environment issues should be able to access and share not only building information but also data about products, especially environmental assessment results for the products used in building projects. Of the several approaches that have been proposed to achieve efficient information exchange, semantic web technologies are amongst the most promising due to their capability to share data and enhance interoperability between the most heterogeneous systems. This study proposes an approach that can be used to make environmental data available in the early phases of the building lifecycle. It relies on Semantic Web techniques, especially Linked Data principles, while building on emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology to propose an approach that facilitates information exchange to enhance the sustainability assessment of buildings. The paper ends with an illustration of how lifecycle inventory databases can be integrated, linked to BIM software and used in exchanging environmental building data.
  

  Website 
• Sibilla M, Abanda FH, 'Multi-criteria Decision Making Optimisation Framework for Positive Energy Blocks for Cities'
  Sustainability 14 (1) (2021)
  ISSN: 2071-1050 eISSN: 2071-1050
  Abstract

  Positive Energy Block (PEBock) is a new paradigm towards low carbon cities. However, there is paucity of literature about methods and tools on how to develop PEBlock in practice. This study deals with this gap by developing a multi-criteria decision making optimisation framework for PEBlocks for cities. A case study method is adopted to assess a PEBlock scenario based on adaptable criteria and actions applied to a block composed of three buildings where only one will act as a positive node of the future energy network. Findings point out the flexibility of PEBlock scenarios, weighting each criterion and action and delivering a procedure to drive the transformation of a group of existing buildings into a PEBlock. This study contributes to understanding the emerging properties concerning PEBlocks, discussing its features and stressing main peculiarities compared to other models (e.g. positive energy districts) and concepts (e.g. net-zero energy concept). It also emphasises PEBlock as a feasible and reliable energy infrastructure to support the organisation of new forms of energy organisations (e.g. self-organised energy communities), drawing future developments and implications.
  

  Website 
• Buhammood A.H., Abanda H., Garstecki P., Manjia M., Pettang C. and Abdullahi A. , 'Coupling BIM and Game Engine Technologies for Construction Knowledge Enhancement'
  International Journal of Gaming and Computer-Mediated Simulations 12 (4) (2020) pp.38-63
  ISSN: 1942-3888 eISSN: 1942-3896
  Abstract

  Interactions and collaboration between parties in construction projects are often characterised by misunderstandings and poor information exchange. Game engine technologies, when employed with building information modelling (BIM), can help address these shortcomings. Quite often, the visualisation capabilities of BIM models are not explored fully partly because of their limited interactive capability. While game engines are powerful in visualisation and interactions in the gaming industry, the literature suggests a lack of understanding of the applicability of the same in construction. This study investigates the potential of the use of game engines in construction practice which culminated in a framework that can guide the implementation of the same in enhancing interactive building walkthroughs.
  

  Website 
• Vidalakis C, Abanda FH, Oti AH, 'BIM adoption and implementation: Focusing on SMEs'
  Construction Innovation: Information, Process, Management 20 (1) (2019) pp.128-147
  ISSN: 1471-4175
  Abstract

  Purpose. To reach its full potential, Building Information Modelling (BIM) should be implemented throughout the supply chain. This study explores BIM implementation and adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the UK Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector. The paper addresses two key issues; the slow rate and lack of homogeneity of BIM adoption in the SME sector.

  Design/methodology/approach. The study employs qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate BIM uptake and test for correlations between organisational features and BIM aspects. The sample includes data from SMEs, based in the South East of England, analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics.

  Findings. The results show that, although SMEs have some understanding of BIM related concepts, their familiarity with existing BIM software support systems is particularly low. Limited financial capacity is identified as the main barrier to BIM adoption while knowledge exchange initiatives as the most useful measure in facilitating further implementation. The variations of SMEs in the adoption and implementation of BIM are mostly affected by company size, professional discipline and offered services. The paper also demonstrates that a one-size-fits-all approach to BIM implementation in the AEC sector has limited potential.

  Originality/value. The heterogeneity of SMEs in the AEC sector has been considered to a very limited extent. This paper considers the nature, characteristics and core business areas of SMEs as factors affecting BIM adoption and implementation.

  
  
  Website 
• Mahamadu A-M, Manu P, Lamine M, Booth C, Abanda H, Aigbavboa C ., 'The Importance of BIM Capability Assessment: An Evaluation of Post-Selection Performance of Organisations on Construction Projects'
  Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management 27 (1) (2019) pp.24-48
  ISSN: 0969-9988 eISSN: 1365-232X
  Abstract

  Purpose. The emergence of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has led to the need for prequalification and selection of organisations capable of working within a BIM environment. Several criteria have been proposed for the assessment of an organisations BIM capability during the prequalification and selection phase of projects. However, no studies have sought to empirically establish whether organisations selected on the basis of such criteria have actually been the most successful at delivering BIM on projects. The aim of the study is to address the aforementioned gap through a comparison of predicted BIM capability and post-selection performance. Design/methodology/approach. BIM capability of firms in a case study was predicted using 28 BIM pre-qualification and selection criteria, prioritised based on their perceived contribution to BIM delivery success from a survey of practitioners on BIM-enabled projects. The comparison of predicted BIM capability and post-selection performance was on the other hand achieved through the application of the Technique to Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution and Fuzzy Sets Theory (Fuzzy-TOPSIS). Findings. Findings underscore the reliability of the 28 BIM pre-qualification and selection criteria as well as the priority weightings proposed for their use in predicting BIM capability and likelihood of performance. The findings have highlighted the importance of criteria related as previous BIM use experience as well as information processing maturity as critical indicators of the capability of organisations particularly design firms. Originality/value. Overall, the findings highlight the need for prioritisation of BIM pre-qualification and selection criteria on the basis of their actual contribution to delivery success from post-selection evaluation of performance. 

  Website 
• Farghaly K, Abanda FH, Vidalakis C, Wood G, 'BIM-Linked Data Integration for Asset Management'
  Built Environment Project and Asset Management 9 (4) (2019) pp.489-502
  ISSN: 2044-124X eISSN: 2044-1258
  Abstract

  Purpose. This study investigates the transfer of information from the BIM models to either conventional or advanced asset management platforms using Linked Data. To achieve this aim, a process for generating Linked Data in the asset management context and its integration with BIM data is presented. Methodology. The research design employs a participatory action research (PAR) approach. The PAR approach utilised two qualitative data collection methods namely; focus group and interviews to identify and evaluate the required standards for the mapping of different domains. Also prototyping which is an approach of Software Development Methodology (SDM) is utilized to develop the ontologies and Linked Data. Findings. The proposed process offers a comprehensive description of the required standards and classifications in construction domain, related vocabularies and object-oriented links to ensure the effective data integration between different domains. Also the proposed process demonstrates the different stages, tools, best practices and guidelines to develop Linked Data, armed with a comprehensive use case Linked Data generation about building assets that consume energy. Originality/value. The Linked Data generation and publications in the domain of AECO is still in its infancy and it also needs methodological guidelines to support its evolution towards maturity in its processes and applications. This research concentrates on the Linked Data applications with BIM to link across domains where few studies have been conducted.

  Website 
• Enongene KE, Abanda FH, Otene IJJ, Obi SI, Okafor C, 'The potential of solar photovoltaic systems for residential homes in Lagos city of Nigeria.'
  Journal of Environmental Management 244 (2019) pp.247-256
  ISSN: 0301-4797 eISSN: 1095-8630
  Abstract

  The development and use of solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies worldwide is considered crucial towards fulfilling an increasing global energy demand and mitigating climate change. However, the potential of a solar PV-system is location specific, influenced by the local solar resource, energy demand and cost among other factors. The main aim of this study is to conduct a detailed assessment of the potential of solar PV-systems in residential buildings in Lagos Metropolitan Area, Nigeria. Nigeria has enormous solar energy potential, it is the most populous country in Africa and occupies a significant place in the development of Africa. Yet, it is a county with one of the lowest per capita electricity consumption in the world – at 149 kWh per capita for a population of about 170 million, about 7% of Brazil’s and 3% of South Africa’s. To achieve this goal, this study employed the survey of 150 residential buildings in three local government areas (LGAs) in Lagos State, Nigeria to obtain electric load data. HOMER Pro was used to size the PV-systems and to determine the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The computed energy results of the study for the base case scenario revealed the PV array, lead acid battery and the converter (inverter) of the PV-systems to be in the following range: 0.3 to 76 kW; 2 to 176kWh; and 0.1 to 13.2 kW respectively. Economic analysis revealed a LCOE of the systems in the range of 0.398 USD/kWh to 0.743 USD/kWh. The use of PV-system generated electricity in the dwellings has potential for an annual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the range of 31.24 kgCO2eq to 7456.44 kgCO2eq. Clearly, the use of solar PV systems in residential buildings possesses potentials for enabling Nigeria to attain its climate change mitigation targets indicated in her National Determined Contributions (NDCs). 
  

  Website 
• Oti AH, Tah JHM, Abanda FH, 'The integration of lessons learned knowledge in Building Information Modelling (BIM)'
  Journal of Construction Engineering and Management 144 (9) (2018)
  ISSN: 0733-9364 eISSN: 1943-7862
  Abstract Lessons learned systems are vital means for integrating construction knowledge into the various phases of the construction project life cycle. Many such systems are tailored towards the owner organisation’s specific needs and workflows to overcome challenges with information collection, documentation and retrieval. Previous works have relied on the development of conventional local and network/cloud-based database management systems to store and retrieve lessons gathered on projects. These lessons learned systems operate independently and have not been developed to take full advantage of the benefits of integration with emerging building information modelling (BIM) technology. As such construction professionals are faced with the shortcomings of the lack in efficient and speedy retrieval of context-focused information on lessons learned for appropriate utilization in projects. To tackle this challenge, we propose the integration of lesson learned knowledge management in BIM in addition to existing 2D-8D modelling of project information. The integration was implemented through the embedding of non –structured query system, NoSQL (MongoDB), in a BIM enabled environment to host lessons learned information linked to model items and 4D modelling project tasks of the digitised model. This is beyond existing conventional text-based queries and is novel. The system is implemented in .NET Frameworks and interfaced with a project management BIM tool, Navisworks Manage. The demonstration with a test case of a federated model from a pre-design school project suggests that lessons learned systems can become an integral part of BIM environments and contribute to enhancing knowledge reuse in projects.Website 
• F.H. Abanda , D. Mzyece, A.H. Oti and M.B. Manjia, 'A Study of the Potential of Cloud/Mobile BIM for the Management of Construction Projects'
  Applied System Innovation 1 (2) (2018)
  eISSN: 2571-5577
  Abstract Successful management of construction projects in the Building Information Modelling (BIM) era of the 21st Century should include intelligent systems to support construction project teams in making informed decisions. Project teams are routinely faced with contractual obligations to deliver projects to meet key construction parameters such as cost, time, quality and more recently stringent sustainability requirements. These sorts of pressures are no longer new as widely acknowledged by experienced project managers, contract administrators and clients. The poor performance of one or more of the aforementioned parameters will undoubtedly compromise the entire project, thus leading to the dissatisfaction of clients. This paper explores the use of mobile/cloud BIM in facilitating the adoption of an integrated approach to project delivery through automated or semi-automated dynamic information sharing processes with the ultimate goal of improving construction performance. The adopted methodology involved the use of an online-administered questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews. The study identifies the adoption and uptake of cloud/mobile BIM technologies and the benefits and barriers.Website 
• Farghaly K, Abanda HF, Vidalakis C, Wood G, 'Taxonomy for BIM and Asset Management Semantic Interoperability'
  Journal of Management in Engineering 34 (4) (2018)
  ISSN: 0742-597X eISSN: 1943-5479
  Abstract At present, the capability to collect information from different sources [building information modeling (BIM), sensors, assets database] for asset management (AM) use has generated significant opportunities for asset owners and facility managers. BIM, in particular, is considered as a potentially effective data pool for storing and managing project information during the building life cycle, providing a common data environment for stakeholder data and guaranteeing information availability and credibility at the handover stage. However, this data integration in a BIM environment has issues related to the establishment of an effective process to extract, store, manage, integrate, and distribute data to ensure interoperability. Furthermore, for the interoperability issue, an important challenge is the identification of which data are relevant, reliable, useful, and can add value to the AM processes. This research explored the asset owner requirements from BIM in the operation and maintenance stage from an AM perspective. The research aim was twofold: first, to synthesize the nongeometric BIM data required for AM and develop a relevant taxonomy; and second, to develop an application programming interface (API) plug-in for Autodesk Revit to implement the proposed taxonomy. To achieve the aims of this study, a critical review of previous literature and face-to-face and focus group interviews with BIM and facilities management (FM) experts were conducted. The main output was a 60-parameter asset-consuming energy information management (ACE-IM) taxonomy and the relevant API plug-in that can help BIM professionals to identify the required data to be submitted to facility managers to improve AM processes.Website 
• Amin KF, Abanda FH, 'Building Information Modelling Plan of Work for Managing Construction Projects in Egypt'
  Journal of Construction in Developing Countries 24 (2) (2018) pp.23-61
  ISSN: 1823-6499 eISSN: 2180-4222
  Abstract

  The RIBA Plan of Work together with BIM guidance documents, developed in the UK, are commonly used in Egypt and the Middle East. However, efforts from academics publishing articles about the experiences of the adoption of such BIM standards in Egypt have been very limited. This research investigates the use of a BIM-RIBA Plan of Work in the construction industry in Egypt. The research aim was achieved through literature review and collecting qualitative data from industry practitioners. Focus group interviews was used to collect qualitative data, then analysed through consecutive stages of transcription, coding and structuring. The main finding of this study is that integrating the RIBA Plan of Work in Egypt would be beneficial only if the established construction activities have been further detailed and linked to BIM concepts. A BIM-RIBA Plan of Work has been developed through the identification of main BIM objectives and activities in each stage in the project lifecycle.
  

  Website 
• Abanda FH, Musa AM, Clermont P, Tah JHM, Oti AH, 'A BIM-based framework for construction project scheduling risk management'
  International Journal of Computer Aided Engineering and Technology 12 (2) (2017) pp.182-218
  ISSN: 1757-2657 eISSN: 1757-2665
  Abstract The management of risks has been at the heart of most construction projects. Building Information Modelling (BIM) provides opportunities to manage risks in construction projects. However, studies about the use of BIM in risk management are sketchy with a lack of a systematic approach in using BIM for managing risk in construction projects. Based on existing risk models, this study investigated and developed a BIM-based framework for the management of construction project scheduling risk. Although, the frameworks were developed by mining risk management processes from Synchro and Vico, both being amongst leading 4D/5D BIM software systems, they can inform risk management in BIM projects that are supported by 4D/5D BIM software systems that contain risk management modules. The frameworks were validated for their syntactic and semantic correctness. Website 
• Tah JHM, Oti AH, Abanda FH, 'A state-of-the-art review of built environment information modelling (BeIM)'
  Organization, Technology and Management in Construction: an International Journal 9 (1) (2017) pp.1638-1654
  ISSN: 1847-5450 eISSN: 1847-6228
  Abstract Elements that constitute the built environment are vast and so are the independent systems
  developed to model its various aspects. Many of these systems have been developed under
  various assumptions and approaches to execute functions that are distinct, complementary or
  sometimes similar. Also, these systems are ever increasing in number and often assume similar
  nomenclatures and acronyms thereby exacerbating the challenges of understanding their
  peculiar functions, definitions and differences. The current societal demand to improve
  sustainability performance through collaboration, whole-systems and through-life thinking, is
  driving the need to integrate independent systems associated with different aspects and scales
  of the built environment to deliver smart solutions and services that improve the wellbeing of
  citizens. The contemporary object-oriented digitization of real world elements appears to
  provide a leeway for amalgamating modelling systems of various domains in the built
  environment which we termed as built environment information modelling (BeIM). These
  domains included Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Urban Planning and Design.
  Applications such as Building Information Modelling, Geographic Information Systems and 3D
  City Modelling systems are now being integrated for city modelling purposes. The various
  works directed at integrating these systems are examined revealing that current research
  efforts on integration fall into three categories: (1) data/file conversion systems, (2) semantic
  mapping systems and (3) the hybrid of both. The review outcome suggests that a good
  knowledge of these domains and how their respective systems operate is vital to pursuing
  holistic systems integration in the built environment.Website 
• Abanda FH, Tah JHM, Cheung FKT, 'BIM in Off-site Manufacturing for Buildings'
  Journal of Building Engineering 14 (Nov. 2017) (2017) pp.89-102
  ISSN: 2352-7102
  Abstract The need to overcome challenges faced by construction industry has been at the core of many
  government reports. Most of the reports suggest the adoption of innovations including off-site
  manufacture and emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) to overcome the challenges facing the industry. Current research has largely focused on the impacts of off-site manufacture and BIM independently applied on traditional construction methods. Due to the factory-based nature of off-site manufacture, the benefits of BIM on off-site manufacture have been widely argued to be far greater than those of traditional construction. However, studies about impacts of BIM on off-site manufacture are scarce with far too many on traditional construction. This study investigates the implications of BIM systems on off-site manufacture and traditional construction methods, with emphasis on the technological potential of BIM for off-site manufacture. The specific objectives of the study are threefold. Firstly, it examines how BIM can support off-site manufacture. Secondly, the paper discusses the benefits of BIM and explains how BIM can overcome barriers hindering the uptake of off-site manufacturing. Thirdly, due to the importance to measure the benefits to support wider adoption, an examination of the published quantitative benefits of BIM on off-site manufacture and traditional construction is undertaken. A critical appraisal of the literature was undertaken to achieve the aim of this study. The main findings are the identification of qualitative and quantitative benefits of: BIM on off-site manufacture, off-site manufacture and BIM on traditional construction. The findings reinforce the argument that BIM adoption on off-site manufacturing projects is a rapid, efficient and one of the best ways to improve on the long standing challenges that have plagued the construction industry for generations.Website 
• Enongene KE, Murray P, Holland J, Abanda FH, 'Energy savings and economic benefits of transition towards efficient lighting in residential buildings in Cameroon'
  Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 78 (2017) pp.731-742
  ISSN: 1364-0321
  Abstract Lighting accounts for over 20% of electricity use in the residential sector of Cameroon. Due to the unreliable and inadequate energy supply in the country, there is a need for the efficient utilization of the available energy. This paper presents the current different technologies used for artificial lighting including the economic and environmental benefits associated with a switch from incandescent lighting to compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and light emitting diode (LED) in residential dwellings in Buea, Cameroon. The study employed a survey of 100 residential dwellings in Buea. Results of the survey revealed that artificial lighting in dwellings is achieved through the use of the following technologies: incandescent lamps, CFLs and fluorescent tubes. The economic assessment for the substitution of incandescent lamps with CFL and LED considering an average daily lighting duration of six hours was also conducted using the net present value (NPV), benefit cost ratio (BCR), the simple payback period (PBP) and a life cycle cost analysis (LCC). The economic assessment revealed an NPV that ranges from $47 to $282.02, a BCR of 1.84 and a PBP of 0.17 year for the substitution of current incandescent lamps in dwellings with CFL while the substitution of incandescent lamps with LED revealed an NPV of the range $89.14 to $370, a BCR of 3.18 and a PBP of 1.92 years. The LED and incandescent technologies emerged with the lowest and highest LCC respectively. Substituting incandescent lamps with CFL and LED results in a reduction in lighting related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from dwellings by 66.6% and 83.3% respectively. From the results, a transition towards efficient lighting in the residential sector of Cameroon possesses great economic and environmental benefits. There is need for the government of Cameroon to expedite the uptake of LED through the formulation and implementation of favourable policies.Website 
• Abanda FH, Oti AH, Tah JHM, 'Integrating BIM and New Rules of Measurement for Embodied energy and CO2 assessment'
  Journal of Building Engineering 12 (2017) pp.288-305
  ISSN: 2352-7102
  Abstract Embodied energy/CO2 computational models can help decision-makers choose appropriate technologies, building materials, systems and processes that minimize impacts on the environment. While existing models have been great in the assessment process, they often suffer from two main weaknesses. Firstly, models exist in silos and only fit for computing individual material type at any one time. Secondly, computational results obtained from most models are not aligned to standard measurement methods used in practice. In this study, a system that can automate the computation of embodied energy/CO2 of buildings and aligns the results to the UK New Rules of Measurement (NRM) has been proposed. The developed system was tested using case study houses with known dimensions. It allows the simultaneous determination of embodied energy/CO2 and cost and aligns the results to the UK NRM concepts. This is useful for simultaneously determining the environmental impact of building components and their corresponding costs.
   
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• Abanda FH, Kamsu-Foguem B, Tah JHM, 'BIM : new rules of measurement ontology for construction cost estimation'
  Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal 20 (2) (2017) pp.443-459
  ISSN: 2215-0986
  Abstract For generations, the process of cost estimation has been manual, time-consuming and errorprone. Emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) can exploit standard measurement methods to automate cost estimation process and improve inaccuracies. Structuring standard measurement methods in an ontologically and machine readable format for a BIM software can greatly facilitate the process of improving inaccuracies in cost estimation. This study explores the development of an ontology based on New Rules of Measurement (NRM) for cost estimation during the tendering stages. The methodology adopted is Methontology, one of the most widely used ontology engineering methodologies. To ensure the ontology is fit for purpose, cost estimation experts are employed to check the semantics, descriptive logicbased reasoners are used to syntactically check the ontology and a leading 4D BIM modelling software is used on a case study building to test/validate the proposed ontology.
   
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• Abanda FH, Manjia MB, Enongene KE, Tah JHM, Pettang C, 'A feasibility study of a residential photovoltaic system in Cameroon'
  Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments 17 (2016) pp.38-49
  ISSN: 2213-1388
  Abstract This paper presents a feasibility study of stand-alone solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for the electrification of three residential case study buildings (T4, T5 and T6) in the capital city of Yaoundé, Cameroon. The system was sized taking into account the load of the buildings and the available energy from the sun. The power, area of PV modules and daily energy generated by the PV for T4, T5 and T6 were respectively determined as: 2103 W, 14 m² and 9.8 kW h/day; 3779 W, 25.2 m² and 17.6 kW h/day; and 2766 W, 18.4 m² and 12.9 kW h/day. The battery bank capacity, size of inverter and controller were respectively obtained as: 40,323 W h, 635 W and 93 A for T4; 72,433 W h, 795 W and 156 A for T5; and 53,017 W h, 826 W and 114 A for T6. The life cycle cost and annualized life cycle cost (ALCC) of the systems were respectively found to be: €15,714 and €1039 for T4; €27,227and €1800 for T5; and €20,006 and €1322 for T6. The average unit electricity cost for T4, T5 and T6 was respectively determined to be €0.52 kW h⁻¹, €0.50 kW h⁻¹ and €0.51 kW h⁻¹, higher than the unit cost of residential grid electricity in Cameroon.Website 
• Oti AH, Tizani W, Abanda FH, Jaly-Zada A and Tah JHM, 'Structural sustainability appraisal in BIM'
  Automation in Construction 69 (September 2016) (2016) pp.44-58
  ISSN: 0926-5805
  Abstract The provision of Application Programming Interface (API) in BIM-enable tools can contribute to facilitating BIM-related research. APIs are useful links for running plug-ins and external programmes but they are yet to be fully exploited in expanding the BIM scope. The modelling of n-Dimensional (nD) building performance measures can potentially benefit from BIM extension through API implementations. Sustainability is one such measure associated with buildings. For the structural engineer, recent design  criteria have put great emphasis on the sustainability credentials as part of the traditional criteria of structural integrity, constructability and cost. This paper examines the utilization of API in BIM extension and presents a demonstration of an API application to embed sustainability issues into the appraisal process of structural conceptual design options in BIM. It concludes that API implementations are useful in expanding the BIM scope. Also, the approach including process modelling, algorithms and object-based instantiations demonstrated in the API implementation can be applicable to other nD building performance measures as may be relevant to the various professional platforms in the construction domain.Website 
• Abanda FH, Byers L, 'An investigation of the impact of building orientation on energy consumption in a domestic building using emerging BIM (Building Information Modelling)'
  Energy 97 (2016) pp.517-527
  ISSN: 0360-5442
  Abstract BIM (building information modelling) has developed into a powerful solution that can improve many aspects of construction industry. Current research regarding the impact of orientation on a building's energy needs seldom tap into the potential of BIM. This study investigates the
  impact of orientation on energy consumption in small-scale construction, and assesses how BIM can be used to facilitate this process. The methods adopted are three-fold. Firstly, a real-life building is modelled using Revit, one of the leading BIM tools. Secondly, through green building
  Extensible Markup Language, the model is exported to Green Building Studio, one of the leading energy simulation software. Thirdly, in the Green Building Studio, different building orientations are adopted and their impacts of the whole building energy are investigated. Based on the analysis of the energy consumption corresponding to the different orientations, it emerged that a well-orientated building can save a considerable amount of energy throughout its life cycle. Specifically, a total electricity use difference of 17 056 kWh and a total gas use
  difference of 27 988 MJ leading to a combined energy cost savings of 878 pound throughout a 30 year period between the best (+180 degrees) and worst (+45 degrees) orientations of the building was achieved.
  Website 
• Abanda FH, Vidalakis C, Oti AH, Tah JHM, 'A critical analysis of Building Information Modelling systems used in construction projects'
  Advances in Engineering Software 90 (December 2015) (2015) pp.183-201
  ISSN: 0965-9978
  Abstract Building Information Modelling (BIM) is now a global digital technology which is widely believed to have the potential to revolutionise the construction industry. This has been mainly a result of worldwide government initiatives promoting BIM uptake to improve efficiency and quality in delivering construction projects. This push has been accompanied by the release of a tremendous amount of BIM software systems which are now available in the market. Although this can be seen as a positive development, one cannot ignore how it has overwhelmed many professionals who cannot easily distinguish between the uses of these software systems. Previous studies about different BIM systems have generally been limited in scope focusing predominantly on operational issues. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive and critical appraisal of a wide range of BIM software systems currently being used in managing construction project information. To achieve this, five main methods are adopted. These include a systematic review of the literature, a structured questionnaire survey, action learning, focus group discussions and email surveys. It has to be noted that, although it is impossible to examine the totality of BIM systems, the study adopts a holistic approach looking at most of the major BIM system categories and 122 application examples which are common in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry.Website 
• Abanda F, Manjia M, Cole E, Mempouo B, 'The Potential of Efficient Improved Mud-Brick Cookstove in Cameroon: An Exploratory Study'
  Environmental Management and Sustainable Development 4 (1) (2015) pp.106-
  ISSN: 2164-7682
  Abstract In most Africa countries, cooking is a dirty and time-consuming job that involves feeding some pieces of fuel such as wood, charcoal, or coal for a fire. Globally, some 500 million households with more than 70% in Africa depend on burning solid fuel to meet their cooking, heating, lighting, and other household energy needs. The wanton exploitation of wood fuel is having so many negative impacts on many households in Cameroon. Some of the impacts include: the depletion of the forest leading to environmental degradation, health impacts, etc. In the Central Africa region including Cameroon about 80-90% of the population has limited access to modern forms of energy such as electricity, and relies on traditional biomass (e.g. wood and agricultural residues) for cooking and heating. There is an urgent need to investigate more efficient cook stove technologies that have very minimal or no impact on the environment and households. In this study, an improved mud-brick cook stove was designed and tested in a typical family house in Cameroon. To ensure the acceptability and sustainability of the technology, the rural dwellers were involved in the design and implementation. The performance of the stove was compared with that of traditional 3-stone fireside common in most rural households in Cameroon. The mud-brick cook stoves are large and permanently built into a kitchen and easy to use. The mud-brick cook stove construction materials are available in communities that have clay soil and can be made using limited tools.Website 
• Kamsu-Foguem B, Abanda FH, 'Experience modeling with graphs encoded knowledge for construction industry'
  Computers in Industry 70 (2015) pp.79-88
  ISSN: 0166-3615
  Abstract The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry is becoming increasingly knowledge intensive. Knowledge management has been hailed as an enabler for tapping this knowledge to improve efficiency in the AEC industry. In this study, the main concepts and benefits of knowledge management, relationships between knowledge management and continuous improvement have been examined. Furthermore, emphasis has been laid on knowledge management through experience feedback processes which constitute valuable assets for the AEC industry. This is done through the employment of ontologies and graph-based reasoning operations in eliciting and visualizing knowledge concepts in the AEC domain. The proposed approach which consists of two main aspects provides the opportunity to examine the conceptual and ontological knowledge models with associated reasoning. In the first, the concepts of knowledge management, their significance and application in the AEC field are discussed. The second deals with a methodological framework for the modeling and reasoning in the domain ontology. To facilitate automation, an ontology graph-based editor, Conceptual Graphs User Interface (CoGui) was used to model knowledge and encoded reasoning in the knowledge base. CoGui encodes knowledge as conceptual graphs and reasoning as graph operations that can be visualized in a logically precise way, based on domain ontologies. It emerged that CoGui could be very useful in acquiring information that can be used in collaboration with others to continuously improve information sharing and re-use. A French AEC company located in the Southwest region was employed as a case study in illustrating knowledge modeling through the experience feedback process. For each phase of experience feedback, actions that were implemented in the company are discussed.Website 
• Abanda FH, Kamsu-Foguem B, Tah JHM, 'Towards an intelligent ontology construction cost estimation system: using BIM and new rules of measurement techniques'
  International Journal of Computer, Electrical, Automation, Control and Information Engineering 9 (1) (2015) pp.294-299
  Abstract
  Construction cost estimation is one of the most important aspects of construction project design. For generations, the process of cost estimating has been manual, time-consuming and error-prone. This has partly led to most cost estimates to be unclear
  and riddled with inaccuracies that at times lead to over- or underestimation
  of construction cost. The development of standard set of measurement rules that are understandable by all those involved in a construction project, have not totally solved the challenges. Emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) technologies can exploit standard measurement methods to automate cost estimation process and improve accuracies. This requires standard measurement methods to be structured in ontological and machine readable format; so that BIM software packages can easily read them. Most standard measurement methods are still text-based in textbooks and require manual editing into tables or Spreadsheet during cost estimation. The aim of this study is to explore the development of an ontology based on New Rules of Measurement (NRM) commonly used in the UK for cost estimation. The methodology adopted is Methontology, one of the most widely used ontology engineering methodologies. The challenges in this exploratory study are also reported and recommendations for future studies proposed. 
  Website 
• Malama A, Makashini L, Abanda H, Ng'ombe A, Mudenda P, 'A Comparative Analysis of Energy Usage and Energy Efficiency Behavior in Low-and High-Income Households: The Case of Kitwe, Zambia'
  Resources 4 (4) (2015) pp.871-902
  ISSN: 2079-9276 eISSN: 2079-9276
  Abstract Energy efficiency has been an important topic since the latter part of the last century. This is because adoption of energy efficiency measures has been acknowledged as one of the key methods of addressing the negative impact of climate change. In Zambia, however, the need to adopt energy efficiency measures has not just been driven by the imperative to mitigate the negative effects of climate change but also by a critical shortage of energy. This research looks at households’ energy consumption behavior in low- and high-income areas of Kitwe. Recent studies on the relationship between household energy consumption and behavioral lifestyle have been descriptive, with limited emphasis on the relationships between various variables. In this study, descriptive and inferential statistics have been used to investigate relationships between the two income groups and various energy consumption-related variables such as knowledge about energy reduction measures, energy saving strategies, barriers to the use of energy saving strategies, and the motives for using energy reduction strategies. Methodologically, the study was largely quantitative in nature, with questionnaires administered to a combined total of 56 households. However, key interviews were also conducted that helped us to get a clearer understanding of some of the issues covered in the research. Key findings are that whereas the descriptive statistics show that there are behavioral differences between the two income groups, the inferential statistics show that there is no relationship between income level and the energy efficiency variables. This has been found to be consistent with results from studies done elsewhere. The key lesson is that there is low usage of energy efficiency measures in both low- and high-income areas and that the authorities need to change the way information is disseminated to consumers from the current method of advertising to social diffusionWebsite 
• Abanda FH, Manjia MB, Pettang C, Tah JHM, Nkeng GE, 'Building Information Modelling in Cameroon: Overcoming Existing Challenges'
  International Journal of 3-D Information Modeling 3 (4) (2014)
  ISSN: 2156-1710 eISSN: 2156-1702
  Abstract

  BIM has recently gained ground in developed countries. However, the use of BIM in developing countries including Cameroon is not well-known. In this study, BIM implementation in Cameroon is explored. The research methods used are a pilot study, electronic email surveys and in-depth phone interviews. Altogether, 179 professionals having at least a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the National Advanced School of Engineering Yaoundé I - Cameroon, a leading engineering institution in Francophone Africa, were sampled. Forty six provided feedback yielding a response rate of 25.7%. It emerged that some BIM software are already being used in Cameroon. However, major barriers hindering BIM uptake are high license fee and lack of huge projects that can pay off the cost of investment in BIM. Perhaps, partly because the respondents were highly skilled, it emerged that the lack of expertise was/is not a major problem to use BIM in projects. Although this study is limited to Cameroon, many recommendations could be relevant to other African countries.

  Website 
• Abanda FH, Elambo NG, Tah J, Fabrice O, Blanche MM, 'Embodied energy and CO2 analyses of mud-brick and cement-block houses'
  AIMS Energy 2 (1) (2014) pp.18-40
  ISSN: 2333-8326 eISSN: 2333-8334
  Abstract In building projects, the extraction of vast quantities of materials is too common. The extraction of materials and the erection of buildings consume embodied energy and emit carbon dioxide (CO2) that impact negatively on the environment. Therefore it is necessary to consider embodied energy and CO2 amongst other factors in selecting building materials for use in building projects. In most developing countries, building environmental performance analysis has yet to gain interest from the construction community. However, with recent increase in sustainability awareness, both developed and developing nations have engaged in efforts to tackle this challenge. Embodied energy and CO2 are among the leading parameters in assessing environmental building performance. In Cameroon, studies about the assessment of embodied energy and CO2 of building projects are scarce. Hence, professionals find it difficult to make alternative choices for building materials to use in their different building projects. This study uses a detailed process analysis approach supported by two popular housing types in Cameroon (mud-brick and cement-block houses) to assess the embodied energy and CO2 impacts from building materials. The emerging Building Information Modelling (BIM) tool was used to validate the computational results of the process analysis method. The findings revealed the embodied energy and CO2 for the mud-brick houses are 137934.91 MJ (2007.8 MJ/m2) and 15665.56 Kg CO2 (228.03 Kg CO2/m2); the cement-block houses are 292326.81 MJ (3065.51 MJ/m2) and 37829.19 Kg CO2 (396.7 Kg CO2/m2) respectively. Thus, the cement-block house expends at least 1.5 times more embodied energy and emits at least 1.7 times more embodied CO2 than mud-brick house. Although these findings cannot be generalized, they nonetheless indicate the importance of considering embodied energy and CO2 in making alternative choices for use in different building projects.Website 
• Abanda F, Tah J, Cheung F, 'Mathematical modelling of embodied energy, greenhouse gases, waste, time–cost parameters of building projects: a review'
  Building and Environment 59 (January) (2013) pp.23-37
  ISSN: 0360-1323
  Abstract

  The construction industry including its support industries is one of the highest consumers of natural resources. In the act of consumption of natural resources during construction processes, embodied energy and greenhouse gases are emitted which have adverse effects on the natural environment. Thus, recent studies have revealed a significant interest in the quantification of embodied energy and greenhouse gases in construction processes. Unfortunately, current interpretations and quantification procedures of embodied energy and greenhouse gases are quite unclear. More also, while greenhouse gas and embodied energy quantification models are so disaggregated, studies reveal their existence in isolation without any links to other important environmental/construction management variables such as waste, time and cost. The objectives of this study are to identify the gaps in the current computation models, to reveal the relationships between the identified models and to propose a framework towards developing an integrated model for measuring embodied energy, greenhouse gases, construction waste, time and cost. The contributions of this study are three-fold. Firstly, the identification of the different models and variables, such that they can be used in computations, that can lead to consistent and comparable results. Secondly, investigate the relationships amongst embodied energy, greenhouse gases, construction waste, cost and time variables, that can facilitate the quantification process and hence potentially facilitate the engagement into low carbon building design by construction professionals. Lastly, lay the foundation for further research especially with regards to the integration of the different models and variables so that they can be measured simultaneously.

  Website 
• Abanda FH, Tah JHM, Keivani R, 'Trends in built environment semantic web applications: Where are we today?'
  Expert Systems with Applications 40 (14) (2013) pp.5563-5577
  ISSN: 0957-4174
  Abstract

  The built environment sector impacts significantly on communities. At the same time, it is the sector with the highest cost and environmental saving potentials provided effective strategies are implemented. The emerging Semantic Web promises new opportunities for efficient management of information and knowledge about various domains. While other domains, particularly bioinformatics have fully embraced the Semantic Web, knowledge about how the same has been applied to the built environment is sketchy. This study investigates the development and trend of Semantic Web applications in the built environment Understanding the different applications of the Semantic Web is essential for evaluation, improvement and opening of new research. A review of over 120 refereed articles on built environment Semantic Web applications has been conducted. A classification of the different Semantic Web applications in relation to their year of application is presented to highlight the trend. Two major findings have emerged. Firstly, despite limited research about easy-to-use applications, progress is being made from often too-common ontological concepts to more innovative concepts such as Linked Data. Secondly, a shift from traditional construction applications to Semantic Web sustainable construction applications is gradually emerging. To conclude, research challenges, potential future development and research directions have been discussed.

  Website 
• Abanda F, Tah J, Duce D, 'PV-TONS: a photovoltaic technology ontology system for the design of PV-systems'
  Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence 26 (4) (2013) pp.1399-1412
  ISSN: 0952-1976
  Abstract The impacts of climate change, the increasing demand for energy and the diminishing fossil fuel resources have resulted in the development and use of a large number of renewable energy technologies in building development. These technologies are generating a huge amount of information which often overwhelms interested users and thus makes it difficult for them to make informed choices about their applications. The emergence of Semantic Web technologies, the next generation of Web technologies, promises to considerably improve representation, sharing and re-use of information to support decision-making. This article investigates how the emerging Semantic Web enabling technologies can be used to both represent information and knowledge about renewable energy technologies, and facilitate system decision-making in recommending appropriate choices for use in different situations. Based on a review of literature, a prototype Semantic Web system known as the photovoltaic technology ontology system (PV-TONS) for managing knowledge about PV-systems is developed to demonstrate some Semantic Web capabilities. PV-TONS includes Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL) that provides a reasoning mechanism to facilitate system decision support. To validate PV-TONS, a green building that uses PV-systems to generate its energy was employed as a case study.Website 
• Abanda F H, 'Renewable Energy Sources in Cameroon: Potentials, Benefits and Enabling Environment'
  Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 16 (2012) pp.4557-4562
  ISSN: 1364-0321
  Abstract The price of hydroelectricity in Cameroon has recently sky-rocketed. At the same time, firewood in remote areas is being depleted without being replenished. This has led to a number of challenges; energy is no longer affordable and environmental impacts from the wanton exploitation of firewood are widespread. Therefore, there is a need to explore other renewable energy sources which have enormous environmental and energy potentials. However, there is limited scholarly work on the potential of other renewable energy sources in Cameroon. Literature on the potential of renewable energy in Cameroon is still very limited and scattered. The exact sizes of the different renewable energy sources, their benefits and the market potential that can stimulate their uptake are not well-known. Therefore, stakeholders including policy makers, researchers and investors lack guidelines on how and at what level to invest, intervene, and design policies that can lead to the practical exploitation of renewable energy sources. This article investigates the extent to which renewable energy can contribute to the energy sector in Cameroon. The article lays the groundwork that can inform various stakeholders to engage into different activities which can foster the understanding of renewable energy sources and their potentials and limitations. Some key findings are that: while solar and biomass energy are abundant almost everywhere in Cameroon, wind energy is feasible in some selected regions. Furthermore, while the few literature sources about geothermal sources are contradictory or at best non-conclusive about their potential, tidal energy is yet to receive considerable attention, with its first feasibility studies having been just recently begun. These findings point to the fact that if renewable energy is to be part of the Cameroon’s energy programme, there is need to scale-up research in the development of renewable energy in order to better inform energy policies.Website 
• Abanda F, Ng’ombe A, Keivani R, Tah J, 'The link between renewable energy production and gross domestic product in Africa: A comparative study between 1980 and 2008'
  Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 16 (4) (2012) pp.2147-2153
  ISSN: 1364-0321
  Abstract Renewable energy (RE) projects are arguably one of the most important strategies that can be used in the mitigation of climate change impacts. At the same time, RE technologies can generate clean energy and potentially boost the economy of the African continent. It is thus not surprising that recent studies have investigated the relationship between RE and economic growth in some African countries. However, the limitation of these reductionist analytical frameworks is that they can conceal the true regional picture in terms of the link between investments in RE technologies and gross domestic product (GDP). This holistic analysis is important in order to inform regional policies on climate change. The article uses statistical analytic techniques to examine the correlation between RE production and economic growth across different blocks of the African continent between 1980 and 2008. The analysis is between geographical blocks (e.g. Southern Africa, Western Africa, etc.) and between oil and non-oil producing blocks. Generally speaking, while there exists a similar pattern in all the studied blocks in terms of mean, standard deviation and correlation between RE and GDP, a few exceptions can be found. For instance, the rise in RE–GDP correlation from 1992/1993 onwards was conspicuously higher in North Africa and oil-producing countries compared to all the other blocks. Similarly, Southern Africa was the only block where the correlation between RE and GDP was negative throughout the period under review, except 1988, 1989 and 1997 when it was positive.Website 
• Manjia M, Pettang C, Abanda F, 'Urban self-building labour cost modelling in cameroon'
  Journal of Construction in Developing Countries 16 (2) (2011) pp.69-90
  ISSN: 1823-6499
  
• Tah J, Abanda F, 'Sustainable building technology knowledge representation: using semantic web techniques'
  Advanced Engineering Informatics 25 (3) (2011) pp.547-558
  ISSN: 1474-0346
  Abstract The global quest for sustainability in the exploitation of resources and the need for carbon foot-print reduction has resulted in the development of a large number of innovations and a huge amount of knowledge on sustainable building technologies. Unfortunately, users are being overwhelmed with information overload in this area such that it is difficult for them to make informed choices. The emergence of Semantic Web technologies, the next generation of Web technologies, promises to considerably improve representation, sharing and re-use of information to support decision-making. This paper explores the extent to which emerging Semantic Web technologies can be exploited to both represent information and knowledge about sustainable building technologies, and facilitate system decision-making in recommending appropriate choices for use in different situations. This is done by undertaking a literature review of emerging Semantic Web technologies and emerging innovations in sustainable building technologies. To demonstrate what can already be gained from the Semantic Web, a conceptual model for representing information about photovoltaic system, a major type of sustainable building technologies has been developed. The model is used to develop and test a prototypical ontology in Web ontology language representing knowledge in the photovoltaic system domain. The ontology has been extended to include Description Logics that provide a reasoning mechanism to facilitate system decision support.Website 
• Abanda H, Ng'ombe A, Tah J, Keivani R, 'An ontology-driven decision support system for land delivery in Zambia'
  Expert Systems with Applications 38 (9) (2011) pp.10896-10905
  ISSN: 0957-4174
  Abstract Land is increasingly becoming important as the global economic crisis and climate change impacts continue to grow. This is mirrored in Zambia where the management of land has become very critical, prompting urgent government intervention/regulatory measures in the form of land reform. However, lack of efficient communication mechanisms inhibits the success of these efforts as officials are unable to make efficient land delivery decisions. This paper investigates the extent to which Semantic Web technology, an emerging communication technology, can be used in developing decision support systems that can facilitate the Zambian land delivery process.Website 

Book chapters

• Abanda FH, Oti AH, Tah JHM, 'Digitizing the Assessment of Embodied Energy and Carbon Footprint of Buildings Using Emerging Building Information Modeling' in Muthu SS (ed.), Digitizing the Assessment of Embodied Energy and Carbon Footprint of Buildings Using Emerging Building Information Modeling, CRC Press (2015)
  ISBN: 978-1-4822-6222-3 eISBN: 978-1-4822-6223-0
  Abstract Chapter 14Website 

Conference papers

• Oti AH, Abanda FH, 'A review of information modelling systems in the built environment'
  (2019) pp.161-174
  ISBN: 9783030136963 eISBN: 9783030136970
  Abstract The built environment can be described to constitute the surrounding and existing elements created by humans. The systems for modelling information related to the built environment are numerous. Their development are based on varying assumptions and tailored to the various domains in which they are deployed. The functions of these systems are sometimes similar or overlap and they tend to end up with similar acronyms thereby creating confusion to stakeholders in the built environment. As such, stakeholders also find it difficult to choose systems best suited for their needs among the numerous existing ones. A comprehensive record of systems in the built environment with clear definitions of their functions and areas of overlap is therefore necessary to straighten up such confusion and provide requisite understanding among stakeholders. A literature review of information modelling systems in the built environment is therefore proposed. The review examines systems in key sectors of the built environment such the Architectural, Engineering, Construction, Geography and Urban Planning. We conclude that stakeholders should give strong consideration to interoperability needs along the supply chain in which they work while deciding on the choice of information modelling systems to procure.Website 
• Oti AH, Abanda FH, 'A framework for integrating sustainability estimation with concepts of rules of building measurement'
  (2019) pp.175-185
  ISBN: 9783030136963 eISBN: 9783030136970
  Abstract BIM promises improvement in project delivery efficiencies such as reduction in costs and errors and timely completion. Benefits are also expected in sustainable construction aspect with research efforts being extended to sustainable design and assessment. These efforts are still been explored for the purposes of unifying quantification methodologies, the standardisation of system boundaries, terms of references and sustainability measures. Embodied energy and CO2 are two common measures that have been widely used in the construction sector. Although a number calculation system exists, they are not useful to the iterations that occur at the early stages of the project life cycle. At the procurement stage, professionals often rely on schedules and bill of quantities with no reference to sustainability credentials. It is therefore important to integrate sustainability measure with concepts in standard measurement methods. As such, we propose a framework to integrate sustainability credential with the concepts in rule of building measurement. We conclude that this framework can be applicable to any rule of building measurement and it is implementable in a computer programmable environment.Website 
• Saba D, Laallam FZ, Berbaoui B, Abanda FH, 'An Energy Management Approach in Hybrid Energy System Based on Agent's Coordination'
  533 (2016)
  ISBN: 978-3-319-48307-8 eISBN: 978-3-319-48308-5
  Abstract Recently, the field of energy management is studied and most solutions are based on systems with centralized architectures; the latter is characterized by several advantages, but also disadvantages such as fault tolerance or the adaptability to changes in the SEH. In addition, these systems are often difficult to design because of the “top-down” approach used: the designer usually knows how each element must respond autonomously, but a centralized management system focuses only on the overall system response. A proposal for a solution to this problem is presented in this document; it relates to a distributed management solution based on the paradigm of multi-agent systems (MAS). This solution is based on a “bottom-up” approach to ensure better system reliability. After analyzing the previous work, a description of MAS and communication protocol between agents for energy management in a hybrid energy system (photovoltaic, wind) with energy storage is presented.Website 
• Enongene K, Murray P, Holland J, Abanda F, Manjia M, 'Patterns in the use of domestic energy applicances in Cameroon'
  (2016)
  ISBN: 978-9948-13-518-0
  Abstract In Cameroon, the residential sector is the second highest electric energy consumer after the industrial sector, accounting for 30% of total energy consumed. Efforts in the country to reduce energy demand in this sector through the formulation and implementation of energy efficiency measures is hampered by the scarcity of information on domestic energy appliances. In an effort to investigate the energy appliances used in dwellings in Cameroon, this study employed an inventory of 50 urban and 50 rural households in the South West Regional headquarter Buea with an aid of a questionnaire supplemented by an informal interview of participants. The survey had a 70% return rate of the questionnaire. The results of the study revealed that some appliances like mobile phone chargers and television sets were used in both rural and urban areas while other appliances like fridges/freezers and internet routers among others where commonly used in the urban settlements. With the exception of computers, gas and electric ovens, fans, micro waves and fridge/freezers, all the appliances had energy data labeled on them. The findings of this study is not only useful to energy planners in governmental and non-governmental institutions in the country, but as well constitute a good base for further research in the future.Website 
• Ibrahim KF, Abanda FH, Vidalakis C, Woods G, 'BIM for FM: Input versus Output data'
  (2016)
  Abstract In the last decade, the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in facilities management has significantly increased among practitioners. This has largely been due to the noticeable BIM capability in collecting, capturing and generating data/information during the lifecycle of assets through Open data standards such as the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and specifications such as the Construction Operations Building information exchange (COBie). However, accuracies of data and interoperability between facilities management and BIM software systems are still the main challenges for facilities managers. Thus existing applications of BIM for facilities management often output data that does not satisfy the facilities management requirements. Furthermore, the existing frameworks for overcoming the interoperability are generally inclined towards software oriented or theoretical procedures. The purpose of this paper is to develop BIM ‐ based guidelines, which enable to integrate data between the facilities and BIM software systems to keep the data accurate and ensure the outputs achieve the required data/information for facilities management. To achieve the aim of the study, a critical review of peer‐reviewed literature in BIM‐ facilities management and a case study are conducted. The critical review discusses the challenges, gaps and linking approaches of the peer‐reviewed studies about BIM‐facilities management integration. The case study is to assess the suitability of integrating a building modelling tool (e.g. Revit), Open data specification (COBie) and a facility management tool (e.g. Ecodomus) for exchanging data between BIM and facilities management environments. This paper provides practical evidence of both the challenges and the benefits of BIM in facilities management applications and also provides the requirements for successful proprietary middleware for BIM-FM interoperability. Website 
• Musa AM, Abanda FH, Oti AH, 'Assessment of BIM for Managing Scheduling Risks in Construction Project Management'
  (2015) pp.560-568
  Abstract Poor risk management is among major challenges facing the construction industry on issues of timely project completion. Although risk factors are numerous, the nature of construction projects being prone to changes during execution makes it difficult to adequately capture risk aspects related to scheduling and timely project completion. Traditional 2D computer-based tools do not adequately utilize digitised computable information, thus limited in capturing construction risk. Hence, the exploitation of emerging BIM to bridge this gap is now being noted in construction project management. This study investigates the application of BIM in managing scheduling risk of construction projects. Being the preliminary part of an ongoing research, the investigation is carried out through a desk-top study. We argue that in order to properly minimize the risk of schedule delay in projects; construction sequencing activities need to be adequately digitised and BIM offers the opportunity to integrate vital aspects of project management that considerably improve scheduling risk management. 
   
• Abanda FH, Tah JHM, 'Free and Open source Building Information Modelling for developing countries'
  (2014)
  ISBN: 978995627030
  Abstract

  Today in most countries, Building Information Modelling has been hailed as a major solution for long standing challenges facing the construction industry. While Building Information Modelling is already quite popular in developed countries, its uptake in developing countries has been hampered by a number of challenges. Chief amongst these is cost of Building Information Modelling software and training. This study investigates the availability and potential of open source Building Information Modelling software as an affordable alternative for developing countries. This is achieved through an extensive in-depth analysis of secondary sources including Building Information Modelling vendors’ websites. Although the present analysis focuses on selected open sourced Building Information Modelling software applicable to different areas of construction (e.g. energy analysis and cost estimation), their potential to exchange data with other software has been examined. The main findings are that, there are already so many open source Building Information Modelling software that can be used by developing countries or any organisation with limited resources especially Africa. The main contribution of this paper is the provision of an up-to-date free and open source Building Information Modelling and related software with their respective Web links that can be used in managing construction information.

• Kurul E, Abanda H, Tah JH, Cheung F, 'Rethinking the build process for BIM adoption'
  CIB World Building Congress Construction and Society. Australia (2013) pp.1-13
  ISBN: 978-0-9875542-1-5
  Abstract Collaborative working and integrated project delivery (IPD) are considered to be pivotal for the UK Built Environment Sector to rise up to the important challenges, such as reducing carbon emissions and cost, whilst delivering better value to the client. Considerable work remains to be done after nearly 1.5 decades since Egan listed them among the five key drivers of change. Innovating through integration and advocating change remain amongst the Government’s top priorities for the sector to respond to the five-low carbon challenges, and thus to reduce costs by between 10% and 30%. 
   
  Building Information Modelling (BIM) is currently hailed as a solution that will eventually make collaborative working a reality. There is a strong push in the UK for the industry to adopt BIM but very limited appreciation of the issues that need to be resolved, e.g. cultural, procedural, contractual and process-related. Technological solutions to this problem exist but they need to be creatively combined to facilitate true collaboration between disparate project stakeholders who are often reluctant to share innovative solutions due to contractual relationships and Intellectual Property.
   
  This paper focuses on improving the processes to design and deliver standardised schools in the UK by developing a novel approach to IPD through collaborative working and learning from project experience (collaborative BIM- cBIM). This is achieved by utilising the power of BIM, and emerging techniques and technologies. First a review of the current processes is undertaken to identify how IPD of standardised designs should be lead, planned and implemented. Second, emerging tools and technologies that can support this novel approach to procurement, design, and delivery are identified. The paper concludes with suggestions to develop an initial framework for cBIM which details the processes and protocols that should be embedded in project teams to make IPD a reality. 
   
• Tah JH, Zhou W, Abanda F, Cheung F, 'Towards a holistic modeling framework for embodied carbon and waste in the building lifecycle'
  (2010) pp.163-168
  ISBN: 9781907284601
  Website 

Other publications

• , 'Data-Driven Modeling for Sustainable Engineering: Proceedings of the First International Conference on Engineering, Applied Sciences and System Modeling (ICEASSM), Accra, 2017'
  (2020) ISBN: 9783030136963 eISBN: 9783030136970
  Abstract

  This book gathers the proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Engineering, Applied Sciences and System Modeling (ICEASSM), a four-day event (18th–21st April 2017) held in Accra, Ghana. It focuses on research work promoting a better understanding of engineering problems through applied sciences and modeling, and on solutions generated in an African setting but with relevance to the world as a whole. The book provides a holistic overview of challenges facing Africa, and addresses various areas from research and development perspectives. 

  Presenting contributions by scientists, engineers and experts hailing from a host of international institutions, the book offers original approaches and technological solutions to help solve real-world problems through research and knowledge sharing. Further, it explores promising opportunities for collaborative research on issues of scientific, economic and social development, making it of interest to researchers, scientists and practitioners looking to conduct research in disciplines such as water supply, control, civil engineering, statistical modeling, renewable energy and sustainable urban development.

  Website 
• Kurul E, Abanda H, Ng'ombe A, 'A mathematical model for assessing and evaluating students'
  (2016)
• Keivani R, Tah JH, Kurul E, Abanda H, 'Green Jobs Creation Through Sustainable Refurbishment in the Developing Countries'
  (2010) ISBN: 978-92-2-123610-8
  Abstract This paper provides a review of literature on energy-efficient sustainable refurbishment in developing countries and concentrates on case studies within Brazil, South Africa and the Netherlands to examine the social, economic and environmental effects of adopting sustainable refurbishment.Website