Browsing by Author "Coomasaru, P"

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Adoption of 3D printing technology in Sri Lanka's construction industry
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2022-12-02) Cooray, NKV; Coomasaru, P
The construction industry does have a history of embracing new technologies more slowly than other sectors. 3D construction is a revolutionary technology that has recently identified as a possible technology with the potential to enhance the construction industry's effectiveness and efficiency. This research attempts to provide strategies for integrating this technology into the Sri Lankan construction industry. Using NVIVO, a literature review was carried out and recorded. First, a prototype questionnaire survey was conducted based on findings from the literature, followed by a regular questionnaire survey with 39 professionals with 5 to 20 years of experience to identify bottlenecks and enablers. In addition to the questionnaire, interviews were conducted with three experts with more than 30 years of professional experience to validate its outcomes. "Workforce unprepared to engage with 3D printing," "lack of standards or rules for 3D printing technology," and "high investment requirements" were the top three reported impediments. As enablers, design flexibility, cost advantages, and time savings were highlighted. As a final objective, three strategies were identified: "Conduct training for industry staff on how to interact with 3D printing," "facilitate the collaborative approach (partnering)," and "Construction industry to establish a new set of standards, guidelines, rules and regulations pertaining to adaptation of 3D printing into construction industry."
item: Conference-Full-text
Advancing digital technology adaptation in Sri Lankan construction firms
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Bandara, DMUS; Jayasinghe, JASK; Coomasaru, P; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The persisting reliance of the construction industry on traditional technologies has perpetuated inefficiencies, particularly in coordination and collaboration. Addressing the slow adoption of contemporary digital innovations, this study aims to both investigate the technical advancements and barriers impeding their integration into the Sri Lankan construction industry and find out how to facilitate their adoption. Drawing from a convenience sample of 72 professionals with diverse experiences and an expert group with over a quarter-century in the field, a mixed-methods analysis entailing NVivo for qualitative data and SPSS for quantitative insights was employed. The study spotlights Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D printing, and augmented and virtual reality as acclaimed technological strides, with unmanned aerial vehicles being less recognised. Identified obstacles include high maintenance costs, skill deficits, and industry-specific challenges, with proposed strategies such as professional training, awareness campaigns, increased investments, and governmental support. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of digital technology for productivity, accuracy, safety, and innovation in construction, aiming to guide AEC firms in overcoming digital integration barriers and facilitating the adoption of these technologies.
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Applicability of green certification system for domestic construction projects in Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2022-12-02) Perera, BLSH; Ranathunga, RAAS; Madhuwanthi, LPTP; Coomasaru, P
Consistently, researchers have noted that 20 to 30 percent of damage to the environment can be attributable to residential construction. There are a plethora of green certification systems available for implementation throughout the construction phase in Sri Lanka, and the number of adoptions has increased in recent years to lessen the impact on the environment. Even if there has been progress in the implementation of green certification systems, the procedure and associated expenses have been a major concern in the business community. Consequently, the objective of this study is to identify the best appropriate green certificate system for Sri Lankan residential construction projects. The literature review was conducted and analysed using "NVivo." Initially, a questionnaire was deployed to collect primary data, which was subsequently confirmed through interviews with subject matter experts. Sixty-nine professionals with 10 to 15 years of industry experience responded to the survey, and five specialists with more than 30 years of professional experience validated its results. Both the significance of adopting the green certification system and the hurdles that developed during its adoption were addressed in the study. It was recommended that state assistance, social awareness, and continuous education for professionals could facilitate in overcoming the obstacles. Finally, it was determined that the LEED system is the most appropriate green certification system for residential development because it generates environmentally and user-friendly sustainable products.
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Minimising concrete wastage in Sri Lanka using lean construction techniques
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Coomasaru, P; Wickramasuriya, SDTS; Perera, BAKS; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
Concrete is a major component of construction waste. The amount of concrete wasted in Sri Lanka is significant compared to the amounts wasted in other countries. Traditional strategies adapted to minimise concrete wastage have not been successful. Although lean construction can eliminate waste, there is very little research that has been done on this subject. The aim of the study was therefore to identify the suitability of lean techniques in minimising concrete waste generated during pre and post contract stages of construction in Sri Lanka. Qualitative research methods were used to achieve this aim. A literature review and a set of structured interviews with fifteen experts working in the construction industry were used to collect the required data. The data collected were analysed using content analysis. Total quality management, just in time, process re-engineering, value-based management and total productive management were identified as the lean techniques that can be used to minimise the waste of concrete in the construction industry in Sri Lanka during pre and post contract stages of construction.
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Strategic implementation of PPP for small-scale infrastructure in Sri Lanka: a comparative analysis of alternative PPP models
(Ceylon Institute of Builders - Sri Lanka, 2023-07-21) Guruge, K; Coomasaru, P; Weeraman, C
This study aims to provide a thorough comparison of Private Finance Initiative (PFI), Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), and Joint Venture (JV) models for Small-Scale Infrastructure Development (SSID) in Sri Lanka and devise innovative, tailored recommendations to maximise efficiency, effectiveness, and compatibility. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research systematically examines the key features, benefits, and limitations of PFI, BOT, and JV models in the context of SSID. A compatibility assessment is conducted, focusing on financing approaches, stakeholder engagement, and other critical success factors. The findings reveal that the BOT and JV models are superior to the PFI model due to their balanced stakeholder engagement, risk sharing, and alignment with critical success factors. Based on these insights, the study formulates novel, customised recommendations for optimising the selected model's efficiency, effectiveness, and compatibility with SSID in Sri Lanka, with the aim of informing policy and practice. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for future research exploring alternative financing models and emerging technologies in SSID, opening new avenues for innovative approaches to infrastructure development in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, this comprehensive comparison offers valuable guidance for academics, industry professionals, and policymakers seeking to enhance small-scale infrastructure development in Sri Lanka, emphasising the importance of selecting the most suitable financing model