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Underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) are utilized for a wide range of monitoring and surveillance applications. Lifetime maximization and maintenance of network reliability are among the most important considerations in the deployment of UWSNs. k-connectivity is a robust approach for reinforcing reliability. However, maintaining k disjoint paths from each sensor node to the BS, inevitably, results in extra energy dissipation, which reduces the network lifetime (NLT). Yet, there is no systematic exploration to determine the extent of lifetime reduction due to the increase in the k value, in the literature, to the best of our knowledge. In this study, we create an optimization framework to be able to explore the tradeoff between NLT and k -connectivity-based reliability in UWSNs. Through the optimal solutions of the proposed optimization model for a large set of salient parameters, we characterize the interplay between lifetime and k -connectivity. Our analysis reveals that the k value to be maintained in a UWSN can affect the NLT significantly. © 2014 IEEE., Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu, TÜBİTAK: 113E470, This work was supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) 3001 under Project 113E470.

Multi-linear performance pricing models (MLPP) are widely used by organizations to analyze cost estimates for sourced parts in bulk. However, this analysis process is often resource-intensive, requiring significant tacit knowledge and resources from cost engineers. In response, this design science research (DSR) aims to increase the efficiency of this process by improving the coverage of MLPP models through the development of a research artifact. In our research, we selected a design and development-centred entry point to identify the problem statement (PS). Through the development of a constrain-centric framework (CCF), we were able to break down the PS into a series of research questions (RQ) that could be addressed by implementing the research artifact. To solve the PS, a machine learning (ML) solution using K-means clustering was utilized to identify parts similar to those parts used to model the existing MLPP models. The resulting similar dataset was then analysed by the existing MLPP model, resulting in a significant increase in coverage for the sheet metal MLPP model from 157 parts to 395 parts, representing a 151 % increase in the coverage. As a result, the sheet metal parts yearly annual spend analysed increased by over 73 %. The research efforts not only resulted in an increased coverage of the MLPP model, but also in a significant improvement in the models mean absolute prediction accuracy (MAPE). Specifically, when the existing MLPP model was used to predict cost estimates on data gathered by the ML solution, we observed an improvement in the MAPE, in some cases halving the error in the prediction. The results suggest that the approach can be used to increase the coverage efficiently simultaneously improving the prediction accuracy. Several important topics for future research related to MLPP models in cost management (CM) were identified by this research. These topics include the development of governance policies to ensure effective and manageable use of the MLPP models, as well as the implementation of life cycle management (LCM) strategies to optimize their usage over time. Additionally, there is a need to examine the scalability of these models across different commodities.

Le déficit chronique des JO des villes hôtes permet de chercher les facteurs clés de succès du management événementiel à dimension mondiale. L'absence d'une discipline, d'un modèle budgétaire et d'une régulation des risques entre l'attribution et la réalisation du projet, accentuent l'exposition aux risques liés à l'asymétrie informationnelle entre les agents. L'étude granulométrique des dépenses montre que ces ressources rares ont un comportement lié davantage à l'activité qu'à la ressource qui nécessite une ingénierie responsable des coûts. La certification des comptes des JO est une piste vers une gestion performante des Jeux mondiaux.

Engineering design shows a growing interest in exploring cost analysis to anticipate manufacturing issues and integrate production aspects within the product development process. This research aims to highlight key elements (inputs, parameters, models) to accurately predict the cost of a forged part using a complete model, with important information that can be available during the design phase. For this purpose, a systematic literature review of existing engineering methodologies developed for cost analysis of forged parts (i.e., cost estimation, DtC, and ABC) was performed with characterizations of the different approaches for evaluating the most important topics related to this objective. As a result, the most important insights related to the aim of this review are provided: (i) among quantitative methods, analytical and parametric models are the most suitable approaches to develop a cost estimation, (ii) a cost model based on a linear equation supported by single or multiple variables seems to be the most accurate tool to establish a robust cost analysis in the design of forged components, and (iii) input parameters related to the material type and geometrical features are the most critical cost-drivers in the cost assessment. Moreover, this review contributes to identifying emerging applications and obsolete topics, providing the ground to investigate unexplored areas relevant to future research.

The article is devoted to solving the scientific problem of developing theoretical provisions and providing methodological and applied recommendations for improving approaches to economic assessment and substantiation of engineering projects of construction enterprises. The relevance of scientific research is due to the need to implement a large-scale program for updating the technical and technological base of most domestic enterprises based on replacing outdated types of equipment, technologies and models of construction production management, as well as improving methodological approaches to organizing and managing an enterprise. A significant amount of work on the development and implementation of these measures can be carried out by specialized organizations - engineering firms. However, the feasibility of purchasing their services by construction companies requires a preliminary justification through the development of appropriate engineering projects. Cost engineering as a complex solution to the Customer's problems is indeed a topical product that will increasingly be in demand on the market. Especially in the current conditions, when the key task for any company is to reduce costs, both during the construction phase and during the operation of the facility. The cost engineering of investment and construction projects is closely related to the concepts: project risk management, complex project cost management (TCM - total cost management). Integrated project management can use all methods and tools of value engineering, such as technology audit, price audit, earned value methodology, etc.

Aim. The presented study aims to identify stages in the life cycle of a cultural heritage site (hereinafter — CHS) and determine the specific aspects of calculating the estimated cost of restoration and renovation works depending on the stage of the CHS life cycle.Tasks. The authors analyze regulations and guidance documents establishing the procedure for calculating the cost of work performed on a CHS during its entire existence; examine major stages in the real estate life cycle; develop a CHS life cycle model, outlining the main stages of its existence; determine the relationships between the real estate management system and the cost management system for CHS preservation.Methods. The theoretical and methodological basis of the study includes the provisions of the theory of management, cost engineering, pricing in construction, scientific works and practical results of Russian experts on the subject.Results. The main stages of the CHS life cycle and the relationships between them are identified. The stages of real estate and CHS life cycle are compared.Conclusions. Based on the results of the study, the stages of the CHS life cycle are identified and characterized. The obtained results make it possible to optimize approaches to cost justification during restoration works aimed at CHS preservation with allowance for the stages of its life cycle.

Cost calculation systems are increasingly being implemented in original equipment manufacturing as well as in supplying companies. However, the benefits of these systems in terms of cost and time reduction have not yet been scientifically investigated. In an empirical study, different software solutions for product cost calculation in practice are analyzed and potential benefits identified. The results show that software packages based on CAD, ERP or PLM (1) combined with stand-alone calculation tools (2) are a promising way for cost estimation in industrial product development.

The article proves that value engineering (Value engineering) is a set of methods and tools for managing the value of an investment project at all stages of its life cycle, determines the economic relations among the participants. It is determined that cost engineering includes: formation of the project budget (budget planning of the project, assessment of the efficiency of capital investments, investment assessment) estimated pricing; examination (verification of the accuracy of the determination) of the estimated cost of construction; formation of construction cost; cost control of the project implementation process analysis of actual costs (construction costs). Cost engineering of investment and construction projects is closely related to the concepts: project risk management, integrated project cost management (TCM – total cost management). The use of cost engineering allows to complete the project within the planned time and budget with full satisfaction of previously defined expectations of the Customer, ie with full achievement of all predetermined results. Thanks to considerable experience and high qualification, in realization of projects in the EPC format (Engineering, Procurement, Construction – the contract of full volume of works "turnkey"), experts can achieve reduction of investment and operational costs of the investor by 10-15%. In integrated project management, all methods and tools of cost engineering can be used, such as technological audit, price audit, the method of mastered volume, the application of which are given with the use of economic and mathematical modeling.

This article is devoted to the development of a conceptual, theoretical-methodological and methodological-applied base for the application of value engineering in construction projects, the use and development of polycriteria systems of value engineering in the activities of construction enterprises. The proposed multi-vector assessment approach will modernize the concept of the content and essence of the operating system of an investment and construction project as a mobile enterprise, proposing new business display subsystems: construction and technological; a subsystem for initiating an investment and construction project, planning and diagnostics; a subsystem of administration, coordination and support. Identification of the state and prospects for the activities of construction enterprises on the basis of value engineering serves as the basis for the development of further measures to improve the efficiency of their functioning, increase the level of competitiveness, investment attractiveness, and create prerequisites for ensuring development. The results of the work will help the top management of contracting enterprises to carry out effective monitoring, structuring and maneuvering the assets of contracting construction enterprises in the process of their operating activities, will give a reasonable opportunity to adjust the economic strategy and parameters of the production and economic portfolio of construction enterprises. Cost engineering in the article means methods of product improvement, organizational services and production technologies, the essence of which is the organizational procedure of finding the optimal ratio between the usefulness of the product and the cost of its creation, improvement and use. The main advantages of the cost engineering system are: reduction of risks for the organization; growth of advantages in domestic and foreign markets; reduction of terms of performance of works and the incurred expenses; increase in return on investment, due to the emergence of levers of influence on the project budget.

The article considers the role and mission of the customer service in engineering activities during the design and implementation of investment and construction projects. The essence of engineering, its legal definition, types of engineering at different stages of investment projects are revealed, it is determined that the main purpose of cost engineering is to stimulate for economical work, which is possible through the use of effective engineering solutions. The review of theoretical approaches and methodical recommendations to the concept of "engineering activity", "cost engineering", ways of estimation and formation of effective service of the customer on engineering activity at stages of designing, erection of construction objects, commissioning is carried out. Cost engineering has been identified as an integral part of engineering. The legal support of engineering activities is considered. It is proposed to classify engineering activities according to the functional approach in accordance with the stages of investment projects, namely: pre-project engineering - pre-project stage, project engineering - maintenance of project documentation, construction engineering - engineering activities during construction of facilities - commissioned and further operation, cost engineering - cost optimization at all stages of the investment project, not just at the design stage. The author's classification will allow to coordinate the types of engineering activities with the main stages of implementation of investment and construction projects and will facilitate the customer's services to choose areas for improvement of ongoing projects. It has been proposed for the leading Ukrainian universities to conduct advanced training and introduce the second level of higher education in higher education in the specialty "Сost Engineering in Construction".

Today, the interaction between government entities, private organizations, research and consultation centers in terms of pricing issues in construction is not efficient enough. In this regard, it is necessary to adjust the mechanisms of construction cost management.Aim. The presented study aims to develop an organizational and economic framework of construction cost management that would improve the interaction between executive authorities and the participants of the investment-construction process at the stages of development, coordination, and implementation of investment programs, while also increasing the accuracy of construction cost estimation.Tasks. The authors develop a methodological framework of construction cost management aimed at observing the maximum limit of public investment in construction in the context of implementation of investment programs; determine the content of the structural elements of the organizational and economic framework of construction cost management; develop an organizational and economic framework of construction cost management in the context of public investment.Methods. This study uses general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, economic-mathematical and graphical modeling, methods of expert and comparative assessments, methods of pricing in construction, and methods of cost engineering.Results. An organizational and economic framework of construction cost management is developed, allowing for increased accuracy and reliability in determining the estimated cost of construction. The framework also regulates the interaction between the participants of investment program implementation as well as economic mechanisms and methods involved in construction cost management at different stages of implementation of investment programs - from development and coordination to implementation. The presented approach to construction cost management solves the problems of pricing and investment planning, cost management and investment policy formation. It creates a single information space, which makes it possible to quickly and flexibly respond to information requests and make management decisions with allowance for the objectivity, reliability, and completeness of the data provided. Thus, the organizational and economic framework of construction cost management provides a new format of interaction between the participants of targeted investment program implementation and calculation of the estimated construction cost. The authors propose a methodological framework for controlling construction costs, which includes management planning, assessing and determining the estimated cost of construction, controlling and monitoring construction costs, registering the actual cost of construction. This covers all stages of the construction object’s implementation life cycle.Conclusions. A methodological framework of construction cost management is developed with an aim to observe the maximum limit of public investment in construction in the context of implementation of investment programs.

Currently, there is an excess of public investment allocated for the implementation of targeted investment programs related to construction in Moscow compared with the estimated limit, which requires a set of organizational tools for cost management (algorithms, models, methods, tools, etc.) aimed at improving the accuracy and reliability of the estimated construction cost.Aim. The presented study aims to develop a methodological approach to the organization of construction cost management in the context of public investment, with allowance for the enhanced interaction of executive authorities – both with one another and with other participants of the investment-construction process.Tasks. The authors analyze the activities of an executive authority in the development, coordination, and implementation of investment programs for the construction of facilities at the territorial level under modern conditions and develop a methodological approach to construction management with allowance for the enhanced interaction of executive authorities – both with one another and with other participants of the investment-construction process.Methods. The theoretical and methodological basis of this study includes fundamental provisions of management theory, economic theory, cost engineering, pricing in construction, mathematical modeling, project and risk management, practical experience and scientific works of Russian and foreign experts on the problem under consideration.Results. An organizational framework for construction cost management makes it possible to optimize the interaction of executive authorities – both with one another and with other participants of the investment-construction process – and to use methodological approaches to the formation of a reliable maximum limit of public investment for the purpose of implementing investment programs in construction in accordance with the set limit by establishing an Information Monitoring Center and a database to justify the estimated construction cost, creating and maintaining a database (information resource) containing all information about similar objects in accordance with economic efficiency criteria, monitoring implemented objects to update the database of construction projects.Conclusions. A methodological approach to the organization of construction cost management in the context of public investment is developed with allowance for the enhanced interaction of executive authorities - both with one another and with other participants of the investment-construction process.

The presented study examines the effects of financial and economic factors on the competitiveness of enterprises, with a particular focus on the impact of the price factor. It analyzes the major parameters of cost engineering as a type of consulting services and assesses the practicability of its implementation in the activity of enterprises to create additional competitive advantages.Aim. The study aims to determine the effects of cost engineering on the competitiveness of economic entities and its correlation with competitiveness factors.Tasks. The authors define cost engineering and the specific features of this type of consulting services, determine the impact of the price factor on the competitiveness of enterprises, and substantiate the potential for using cost engineering in the implementation of projects as a way of enhancing competitiveness.Methods. This study is based on the systems approach as well as logical, comparative, factorial, and structural analysis using the theoretical framework of analysis of economic processes.Results. The study proposes using cost engineering as a fundamental link in the integration of planning, funding, and pricing processes at the enterprise level. The practicability of using this particular type of consulting services is further substantiated by the direct correlation between cost engineering and competitiveness factors.Conclusions. Application of cost engineering at the modern stage of development of the national economy can have a positive effect on the competitiveness of economic entities, while also creating and developing their additional competitive advantages.

The drive for a more flexible Through-life Engineering servicing technology that can enhance both productivity and profitability for the operation of maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO) in the aerospace implores harnessing the innovation of hybrid-additive manufacturing (HAM). Hybrid manufacturing system seeks to reduce cost by utilizing the tool-less production principle of additive manufacturing combine with the conventional subtractive manufacturing for product finishing or post-processing. HAM has many merits that make it an attractive option in manufacturing of high performance products as peculiar to MRO businesses. Therefore, this paper aims to establish a cost model derived from a “Time Driven Activity Based Costing” approach for the technological integration of Hybrid system to increase economic competitiveness of highly MRO services in the aerospace industry. Hence, a unique cost formulation method was investigated through analytical technique in cost engineering models for the purpose of manufacturing processes.

This work addresses the budget disciplines of sixteen higher education institutions, eight offer the Civil Engineering Course in person and another eight have national or regional performance and which offer the Civil Engineering course in the EAD form in the city of Belém/ PA; identifies the workloads, menus and bibliographies. The methodology used in the research was the analysis of the Pedagogical Course Plan (PPC) and the syllabus, respectively, of the courses and disciplines, the data were then compared to each other, allowing an overview of the budget disciplines of the analyzed courses. Except for Courses A and D, the subjects are offered concomitantly with issues of management and construction planning. The D course presents better conditions to train more qualified professionals for the budget area. The bibliographic reference and the contents of all courses are 90% similar. It is possible to affirm that the professionals trained by the institutions studied will be able to initially exercise the professional activities of the civil engineer in terms of budgets and for a more professional performance it is necessary to acquire qualifications at the postgraduate level and/or professional experience with the help of qualified mentorship. Este trabajo aborda las disciplinas presupuestarias de dieciséis instituciones de educación superior, ocho ofrecen el Curso de Ingeniería Civil de manera presencial y otras ocho tienen actuación nacional o regional y ofrecen el curso de Ingeniería Civil en la modalidad EAD en la ciudad de Belém/ PAN; identifica las cargas de trabajo, menús y bibliografías. La metodología utilizada en la investigación fue el análisis del Plan de Curso Pedagógico (PPC) y el plan de estudios, respectivamente, de los cursos y disciplinas, los datos luego fueron comparados entre sí, lo que permitió una visión general de las disciplinas presupuestarias de los cursos analizados. Con excepción de los Cursos A y D, las materias se ofrecen concomitantemente con temas de gestión y planificación de la construcción. El curso D presenta mejores condiciones para formar profesionales más calificados para el área presupuestaria. La referencia bibliográfica y los contenidos de todos los cursos son similares en un 90%. Es posible afirmar que los profesionales formados por las instituciones estudiadas podrán ejercer inicialmente las actividades profesionales del ingeniero civil en términos de presupuestos y para un desempeño más profesional es necesario adquirir calificaciones a nivel de posgrado y/o profesional. experiencia con la ayuda de mentores calificados. Este trabalho aborda as disciplinas de orçamento de dezesseis instituições de ensino superior, oito ofertam o Curso de engenharia civil de forma presencial e outras oito tem atuação nacional ou regional e que oferecem o curso de engenharia civil na forma EAD no município de Belém/PA; identifica as cargas horárias, ementas e bibliografias. A metodologia utilizada na pesquisa foi análise do Plano Pedagógico de Curso (PPC) e ementa, respectivamente, dos cursos e disciplinas, os dados então foram comparadas entre si, permitindo esboçar o panorama das disciplinas de orçamento dos cursos analisados. Exceto os Cursos A e D, as disciplinas são ofertadas de maneira concomitante a assuntos de gestão e planejamento de obra. O curso D apresenta melhor condição para formar profissionais mais capacitados para a área de orçamentos. O referencial bibliográfico e os conteúdos de todos os cursos tem 90% de semelhança. É possível afirmar que os profissionais formados pelas instituições estudadas, conseguirão exercer de maneira inicial as atividades profissionais do engenheiro civil no que compete a orçamentos e ara uma atuação mais profissional é necessário adquirir qualificação a nível de pós graduação e/ou experiência profissional com auxílio de mentoria.

Total cost management (TCM) has developed as a systematic approach to managing resources, costs, profitability, and risks throughout the lifecycle of any enterprise, program, facility, project, product or service. However, a number of trends are today creating a new socio-technical scenario, characterized by increasing volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), which is affecting the strategic scope and applicative dimensions of TCM. A logic of sustainability and multi-stakeholder value is increasingly required to account for the competing and multi-dimensional needs of customers, employees, partners, and large stakeholder ecosystems. This article presents a review of cross-disciplinary literature and the use of authors’ engagement and consolidated expertise in the field to drive a group model building process aimed to design a conceptual framework and a research manifesto for the evolving TCM discipline. The study provides a classification of nine major trends and evaluates the impact of those trends on a number of TCM dimensions. Next, a research agenda is showed, including nine trajectories for scholars and practitioners engaged to support the evolution of TCM towards a new idea of systemic value management (SVM). The study advances the current knowledge on value-based and sustainable approaches to management and offers to experts and practitioners a basis to implement innovative development projects in the field of TCM.

SPE/IATMI Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition 2021, APOG 2021 -- 12 October 2021 through 14 October 2021 -- -- 172791, Reservoir engineering constitutes a major part of the studies regarding oil and gas exploration and production. Reservoir engineering has various duties, including conducting experiments, constructing appropriate models, characterization, and forecasting reservoir dynamics. However, traditional engineering approaches started to face challenges as the number of raw field data increases. It pushed the researchers to use more powerful tools for data classification, cleaning and preparing data to be used in models, which enhances a better data evaluation, thus making proper decisions. In addition, simultaneous simulations are sometimes performed, aiming to have optimization and sensitivity analysis during the history matching process. Multi-functional works are required to meet all these deficiencies. Upgrading conventional reservoir engineering approaches with CPUs, or more powerful computers are insufficient since it increases computational cost and is time-consuming. Machine learning techniques have been proposed as the best solution for strong learning capability and computational efficiency. Recently developed algorithms make it possible to handle a very large number of data with high accuracy. The most widely used machine learning approaches are: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Support Vector Machines and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Systems. In this study, these approaches are introduced by providing their capability and limitations. After that, the study focuses on using machine learning techniques in unconventional reservoir engineering calculations: Reservoir characterization, PVT calculations and optimization of well completion. These processes are repeated until all the values reach to the output layer. Normally, one hidden layer is good enough for most problems and additional hidden layers usually does not improve the model performance, instead, it may create the risk for converging to a local minimum and make the model more complex. The most typical neural network is the forward feed network, often used for data classification. MLP has a learning function that minimizes a global error function, the least square method. It uses back propagation algorithm to update the weights, searching for local minima by performing a gradient descent (Figure 1). The learning rate is usually selected as less than one. © 2021, Society of Petroleum Engineers.

During the development and maintenance of software-intensive products or services, we depend on various artefacts. Some of those artefacts, we deem central to the feasibility of a project and the product's final quality. Typically, these central artefacts are referred to as assets. However, despite their central role in the software development process, little thought is yet invested into what eventually characterises as an asset, often resulting in many terms and underlying concepts being mixed and used inconsistently. A precise terminology of assets and related concepts, such as asset degradation, are crucial for setting up a new generation of cost-effective software engineering practices. In this position paper, we critically reflect upon the notion of assets in software engineering. As a starting point, we define the terminology and concepts of assets and extend the reasoning behind them. We explore assets' characteristics and discuss what asset degradation is as well as its various types and the implications that asset degradation might bring for the planning, realisation, and evolution of software-intensive products and services over time. We aspire to contribute to a more standardised definition of assets in software engineering and foster research endeavours and their practical dissemination in a common, more unified direction., Manuscript submitted to the Journal of Systems and Software