Improving Electrical Drawings for Buildings

Introduction

All the structural buildings must be accomplished within a specified time and schedule. However, many people are involved in such projects, including authorities, contractors, designers, clients, and suppliers, who share the same goal of reducing costs and delivery time. The construction project delay has many consequences, such as cost and overrun, stress among the contractors, disputes for all involved parties, and poor-quality work due to rush. In order to eliminate the ramifications and derive the benefits, there is a need to minimize construction project delays (Rachid et al., 2019).

Many building clients frequently become frustrated with the electrical outlet’s locations or anticipate changing the switch position in the building. To a greater extent, that is why electrical and structural engineers develop an electrical plan (electrical drawing), which is the rough layout of what a building’s electrical system resembles before installation to avoid construction delays. The electrical drawing is essential to the electrical engineer and the customer (Adelakun et al., 2020). Not acquiring the electrical layout for the building (ELB) causes project delay, negatively affecting the entire project’s success.

Significantly, a technical drawing refers to a visual representation of where all the building’s electrical points need to be situated. Therefore, it describes the number of switches, sockets, circuits, and outlet locations. Despite that, it showcases entire electrical appliances and lighting fixtures. Different symbols become utilized during the electrical plan to highlight which materials need to be utilized at a given point. These symbols’ arrangement in the buildings massively determines the electrical drawing. Adelakun et al. (2020) showed that electrical drawing is essential to ensure building safety because it enables the electrical system to run smoothly and safely. An electrical diagram enables all the crucial electrical preparation processes to complete before moving to another step of constructing the building.

However, most ELBs completed by the consultants have significant flaws in the design and the electrical calculations, putting the safety of the building’s inhabitants at risk. The consultants are responsible for designing the building hole electricity, which is to be submitted to the Authority. In that process, the electrical engineer conducts an electrical drawing audit to ensure that the layout meets the authority requirements for approval.

Otherwise, the electrical engineer in the Authority gives feedback regarding the electrical design and calculation for the electrical drawing consultants, for example, calculating the proper breaker (CB) and type of CB, among other calculations, including the capacitor bank. Such errors give the electrical engineer much time to revise the design, deterring their approvals and may result in financial losses before sending the consultant to fix the technical drawings (Kamal et al., 2020). The delays in getting approvals also lead to setbacks, including construction process delays. The defects in electrical drawings can be attributed to inexperienced consultant engineers, who have higher job ratings and have not familiarized themselves with large building projects.

Building construction companies are currently operating in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Regardless of their size and experience, they are forced daily to offer the highest quality electrical diagrams with no defects. Companies failing to enhance productivity, quality, and client satisfaction encounter a bleak future whereby business rivals overtake their market share, resulting in substantial financial losses. The business contracting consultants must offer them the best guidelines and measures to compete effectively in this construction-changing environment. In our case, for the consultants to fix the errors in their electrical drawings, they must execute a fixed methodology, such as Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC), to attain vast improvements in productivity, quality, and client satisfaction (Sreedharan et al., 2018).

One of the biggest concerns with the construction company consultants is eliminating defects, like electrical drawing calculation and design errors, which delay the project approvals. In that case, the consultants waste their resources and time reworking the ELB process and lose the client’s trust and satisfaction due to the delayed construction process (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2017).

The companies and consultants need to improve the quality of their technical drawings processes to create a strong business strategic advantage and introduce themselves as an international firm for further prospects. This study examines the quality of electrical drawings and offers a solution to minimize the most critical errors. In order to attain this, the study proposal advocates for the use of the most effective quality management and improvement methodology, that is, Lean Six Sigma, in particular DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), as a problem-solving and improvement model.

The study undertakes a literature review of DMAIC, indicating the positive impact and benefits of the theory on the electrical drawing on eliminating defects for its quick approval. Therefore, the study aims at enhancing the electrical technical drawings undertaken by the consultants. By integrating and executing lean Sigma (DMAIC) into the ELBs, the study outcomes will have reduced ELB auditing for the electrical engineers in the Authority, which will improve the construction process due to approving it in a shorter time.

The research report for the study will involve the literature review, which will discuss the significant accomplishments in the ELBs in buildings, the use of the DMAIC tool, causes of project delays, and the research gap and provide critical discussion. The report will have research methods, aims, objectives, and a feasible case study to improve the buildings’ electrical drawing to reduce the approval time and minimize construction project delays.

Literature Review

Major Accomplishments in Electrical Layout for Buildings

According to (Sreedharan et al., 2018), electrical drawings have improved over several years from manual designing and calculations to specialized software, which aids in minimizing layout errors. The availability of the maps has given the electricians and other construction workers full detail on how to install and repair the electrical systems. Over the years, several building approval agencies have been developed to ensure that the building adheres to the standards to ensure the safety of the occupants. In that case, most companies have highly invested in having highly trained and qualified engineer consultants to develop the best electrical layout for buildings (ELBs) (Saldarriaga et al., 2019). The literature pinpointed the role of approval authorities in designing the best ELBS, but it did not showcase how the approvals assist in reducing layout errors.

A study by Zarei et al. (2018) shows that with internal and external consultations, the errors and defects associated with electrical drawings are effectively tackled to enable approval for beginning the building construction process. The availability of computers and computation software has increasingly led to effective technical drawings. In that case, the technical diagrams contain an extensive database regarding the site plan, including external wiring, floor plans, and structural location. A study by Sreedharan et al. (2018) showed that wiring diagrams have a blueprint of electrical circuits and their physical connection. The literature identified defects in buildings’ ELBs but did not offer recommendations to improve or eliminate the errors.

According to the statistical reports, all ELBs must embed comprehensive details, including light fixtures, power transformers, central and fused switches, and tiebreakers. Other information necessary to integrate into the technical drawings includes the interconnection and switching of the electrical system parts, such as electrical wires, and calculating the size and voltage of equipment, like generators, batteries, and solar panels (Madsen & Madsen, 2016). Such measures have been implemented to eliminate design errors associated with electrical drawings (Saldarriaga et al., 2019). The literature identified the primary components of ELBs, but it did not show that their absence causes a delay in construction projects.

Further research has been done on how to improve electrical drawings. However, the available literature does not indicate how many electrical drawing errors cause delays in approval leading to increased construction process wait time (Sreedharan et al., 2018). All the components of wiring diagrams should be designed error-free to ensure the quickest approval of the projects (Madsen & Madsen, 2016). Multiple research advocates for interscapular knowledge exchange, whereby the qualified engineers of the client company and the consultants work together to attain non-defective technical drawings during the design. The study does not provide data on how technical diagram errors cause construction project delays, but it advocates for interdisciplinary fields working together.

The Use of Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC) in the Construction Field

Literature has advocated using the DMAIC tool and technique to improve the wiring diagrams, which deploys other quality and improved performance models, including control plan, measurement system analysis, Pareto chart, fishbone diagram, and capability analysis. The DMAIC approach helps analyze a process before Implementation, which enables the fixation of a wrong issue that can impact the whole project (Wogan et al., 2017). Using the DMAIC process during the ELB approval by authorities can minimize construction project delays leading to their success. The phenomenon results in general performance improvement, ultimately filtering such through to happier clients. Through rectifying the electrical drawing defects, the literature suggested methods, including DMAIC, ensure improvement of the process, minimizing the approval delays and recurrent reworking (Newbery et al., 2021). The literature gives statistics on the importance of using the DMAIC tool.

According to Wogan et al. (2017), despite improving the design quality, the Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC) acts as a management strategy and philosophy applied to each process, like electrical drawing, to abolish the error’s root causes. To a greater extent, several authors argue that the primary advantage of building electrical design development companies from applying Six Sigma. They include defect elimination, cycle time improvements, cost reduction, profit rise, and improved customer experience.

The literature suggests that the DMAIC methodology becomes utilized in design process enhancement. It can be expanded to improve other business elements, including legal and purchasing, attached with electrical drawings. Incorporating DMAIC with other techniques helps encourage employee participation in the project, increases the process knowledge of the less qualified and inexperienced building specialists, and engendering problem-solving by using statistical thinking concepts (Bhawika et al., 2019). The literature does not give the names of other techniques to be incorporated with DMAIC to improve construction delays despite identifying the root causes of ELB failure.

According to diverse research undertaken, using DMAIC in this research project will enable all the individuals involved in the electrical diagram to enhance their skills and knowledge, thus effectively solving problems through gained statistical expertise (Hsu et al., 2017). Therefore, all the consultant engineers receiving high stars despite having decreased ratings will have improved experience in improving the electrical drawings, making them error-free. The study will benefit from the five interlinked phases: define, measure, analyze, improve, and control. The literature identifies DMAIC stages but does not show how they will reduce project construction delays.

Regarding the define stage, this phase entails determining the project team’s responsibilities, customer requirements, and expectations, elaborating the project scope and limits, and establishing the project’s identified goals using the project charter (Wogan et al., 2017).

The other step involves mapping the electrical drawing process to help comprehend the defects in the implemented design. The ‘measure’ DMAIC stage involves choosing the measurement factors to be enhanced, offering a structure to assess pre-existing performance, and evaluating, contrasting, and monitoring subsequent improvements and capability. The frequent revision of electricity drawings shows that the operations failure costs exceed the target of escalated design defects over time due to denied approvals (Newbery et al., 2021).

The study by Riva et al. (2019) indicates that it is essential to prioritize the causes of frequent electricity design process failures. Hence, this can be achieved by integrating the Pareto chart to showcase the highest triggers of the wiring diagram errors, which the design quality inspector might not detect. The ‘analyze’ phase focuses on determining the problem’s root causes, comprehending why defects have occurred, and comparing and prioritizing chances for better advancement. The study encourages the incorporation of a fish-borne (cause-effect) diagram to pinpoint the root causes of the electrical drawing failure.

Improper design maintenance and poor process release procedure can contribute to such defects. The ‘improve’ stage concentrates on deploying—statistical techniques to create future improvements to minimize the number of quality issues. Last is the control phase, which focuses on sustainability enhancements and ongoing performance monitoring. The stage enables institutionalization and documentation of ELB improvements through training wiring operators on the newly used tools and the current modified processes and updating the control plan, which is essential for this project. The literature gives a vivid description of each DMAIC process phase and the attached advantages in minimizing the construction delays of the ELB for buildings.

Technical Drawing Problem Improvement by Other Sources

Several study sources have developed ways to improve the problem of quality electricity diagrams, which have resulted in faster approvals. Literature suggests using Deming’s continuous learning and process enhancement model plan-do-check-act (PDCA) (Realyvásquez et al., 2018). Despite PDCA being a learning model intended for executing advancement activities, it also envisions data collection and analysis to find the problem associated with electricity layout. The literature fails to compare PDCA with DMAIC to showcase which is more effective in reducing construction delays despite giving its benefits to improve ELB.

According to the literature, such a phenomenon enables project team members to make decisions and courses of action grounded on actual and scientific statistics instead of relying on personal knowledge and experience, as with many consultations wiring companies. The literature does not highlight the effective decisions to be undertaken by the project team despite advocating for the same.

Causes of Construction Project Delays

According to Ren et al. (2021), there are many causes of construction project delays. The first one is budget inaccuracies. A building project’s budget might suffer significantly if an incorrect estimate is provided. In order to avoid overspending, estimates must be accurate. Software streamlining bids, estimates, and financial project planning makes the process less risky. As a result, contractors need a simple method to enter the job into their construction management platform and start to work. Real-time access to data is essential after the work is started to assess how progress is compared to expenses. The literature provided the causes of project delay but failed to show how they should be effectively implemented to realize results.

According to Umar (2018), laborers abstaining from construction work is a major cause of building delays in the modern day. While many skilled individuals laid off during the crisis could find employment in other areas, the downturn impacted this business. Construction jobs have declined in popularity among newer employees entering the market. That dynamic is shifting due to the use of technology to streamline human resources and labor management processes in construction companies. Building a construction schedule may be made or broken by correctly assigning a team.

Approvals also cause construction delays. The government authorities require buildings, mainly commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, to have permits. Lack of compliance with the requirements may cause approval denial; thus, construction increases wait time (Ren et al., 2021). Project obstruction is frequently caused by the overreliance of experts in each stage due to many paperwork involved and their reluctance to execute their duties and responsibilities (Bhawika et al., 2019). When owners are in charge of a project, they must make choices to keep it going. Keeping construction projects on schedule and within budget may be achieved by swiftly coordinating and approving tasks. The literature indicates how approvals cause project delay and their benefits but fails to highlight the attached consequences if not acquired.

A study by Wogan et al. (2017) indicate that every following task on the construction site might be delayed if a subcontractor is overworked or uninformed of the timeframe for the more significant project. There is an increased possibility of legal challenges or disputes if a contractor is not in compliance with their bonding, license, or other contractual requirements. In order to ensure that initiatives go off without a hitch, open communication is crucial. The literature indicates how a subcontractor causes project delay but fails to highlight the attached consequences.

According to Ren et al. (2021), Projects might be delayed or even done wrong if the right and left hands are not communicating. It does not matter whether it is an owner, customer, in the field, or the office; everyone should be kept up to speed on any new information that comes to light. In a disagreement, the general contractor may rely on the communication and cooperation audit trails to ensure that teams have all the information to address problems before they become a project problem. The literature showed how lack of communication causes building delays, but it fails to show how it affects the success of the whole construction project. Table 1 will summarize the most important reasons for construction delay and the sources of information.

Table 1. Causes of construction delay and the source of information.

General Applications of Lean Six Sigma

According to Rosa and Broday (2018), most companies, such as healthcare, manufacturing, business, and customer marketing enterprises, apply the lean six sigma model in their daily activities. Car production firms deploy the approach to help them reduce costs and increase profitability. DMAIC six sigma focuses on process improvement, waste elimination, and inventory reduction. The methodology philosophy emphasizes maximizing the available resources, particularly in production firms, to help them identify the most crucial problems that may affect their manufacturing undertakings.

The operational efficiency improvement creates awareness for the team. In manufacturing entities, the lean six sigma method is applied to create flow after pinpointing, specification, and mapping a given item’s value stream. Therefore, it facilitates product manufacturing completion and the general improvement of the cycle lead time, creating ceaseless work elements flow with stoppages and frequent queues. The literature pinpointed how manufacturing industries can apply to lean six Sigma to reduce costs and eliminate waste, but it failed to showcase methodology demerits when deploying it.

A study by Chiarini and Kumar (2021) showed that many business organizations applying the lean six sigma method create products per the market value expectations or according to customer’s perceptions to minimize complaints. During marketing, the lean model is applied to analyze the processes determining the release of a commodity to consumers. Companies continue to receive negative feedback, particularly when customer satisfaction level deteriorates.

The availability of feasible assembly lines is crucial in achieving smooth production system operation and flexibility. Lean six sigma methodology can enhance an item’s quality and fast delivery to the market at an optimum price, thus aiding firms in exceeding projected clients’ demands. The literature describes how lean six Sigma is applied in business organizations to minimize customer grievances and increase satisfaction.

Lean Six Sigma Applications in Process Time Reduction

One of the most effectively established strategies and methodologies for increasing the speed of service and production industries is the lean six sigma model. The philosophy improves the momentum of entire processes across the firm to reduce wastage to enhance firm performance. Typical waste types that increase operational time include inventory, extra-processing, defects, motion, transportation, waiting, overproduction, and non-utilization of talents (Makwana and Patange, 2021). Lean Six Sigma deploys various statistical techniques and tools and integrates a group of qualified experts to improve total quality management.

The complicated areas are well managed, and the errors are tackled earlier. The minimization of wastes and defectives and streamlining value flow results in the time reduction. The method leads to the proper deployment of lean thinking, rectifying a slow process by developing a well-structured blueprint to reduce variability (Trakulsunti et al., 2022). In the ELB, the lean six sigma methodology can be successfully applied to reduce time by eliminating defects that cause reworking. The literature indicated how lean methodology helps eliminate waste resulting in time reduction but fails to highlight the attached repercussions of not utilizing the method.

The lean six sigma tools and principles serve as the most systematic and organized techniques to the obstacle of cycle time reduction. The method enables the effective allocation of duties and responsibilities to the personnel involved in a particular project, leading to increased commitment and fixation on the immediate arising issues (Honda et al., 2018). The highly qualified group leaders train others without seeking external consultation. Application of the lean model leads to a review of existing workflow, updates on processes, dedication to scheduled maintenance, and maintaining optimal inventory, which helps minimize time spent on a specific activity (Trakulsunti et al., 2022).

The literature showed how qualified experts could offer support to their subordinates and the standardized process of lean Sigma to reduce time reduction. In addition, the method helps measure the total setup time for the electrical drawing, pinpoint the external and internal components, and standardize new procedures to reduce the period of accomplishing the product development or project completion.

Lean Six Sigma Applications to Reduce Rework and Defects

Thapa et al. (2018) showed that the lean six sigma application substantially assists in defects and rework reduction by gathering enough data about an error and how to rectify it. Lean Sigma helps define the problem, measure the deviation using control plans, analyze the root causes, and set countermeasures to minimize the established defects and enhance operational efficiency. Some notable errors with building projects include poor design resulting from incompetent and unqualified personnel. Lean Six Sigma reduces variations and waste defects, which causes delays in the completion of a house construction project.

The methodology helps create waste reduction phases to improve the timely delivery of the final product to the client. Most forms of defects eliminated through the application of lean methodology include rejects, movement, extra processing, movement, inventory, and waiting (Rezaei et al., 2019). The model gives a better and newer viewpoint of examining problems and developing improved ways to solve them. The quality experts design a blueprint for their planned projects to avoid recurrent reworking. The literature indicated how lean six Sigma could be applied to minimize defects and reworks, but it did not show the impact of not utilizing the methodology.

Research Gap

The research gap identified is that there are no studies on electrical drawings failure and its impact on permit approval acquisition. The topic requires future research as electricity diagram defects make the company not obtain approval, thus delaying the construction process (Tariq et al., 2020). In modern society, acquiring construction wiring permits is crucial to ensure residents’ future safety and enable adequate countering of electrical fire hazards in case they occur.

Research PURPOSE and Objectives

Research Aim

The research aims to improve electrical drawings for buildings via Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC) implementation to avoid construction project delays.

Research Objectives

There exist several research objectives that will guide in attaining the study aim. They include:

• To identify the main reasons for delays in construction projects.
• To identify the root causes of the electrical layout drawings defects.
• To investigate the application of DMAIC methodology to minimize approval waiting time.

Methods

The research will be conducted by reviewing the literature and undertaking interviews. Hence, this will ensure that the results obtained from the research indicate that utilization of the DMAIC is essential in improving the ELB to avoid construction project delays. The tools and techniques for collecting and analyzing data will include interviews, case studies, and observations. They will help preserve the information used in the future interpretation of the research findings (Prashar, 2020). According to a study done by Sarstedt et al. (2019), the research methodology diagram is essential as it guides the researcher in pinpointing the links between the study topics and earlier deployed methodologies by other investigators. It becomes easy to identify the research gap by using it. The data collection involving interview and regression analysis helps spot any errors committed during calculating and designing ELBs. Figure1 represents the research methodology diagram that will be followed.

The data will be gathered through both primary and secondary data collection methods. After that, the regression analysis model will be used to establish the variations in the ELB process. In the authority case study, the DMAIC method will be used, and each phase will use a different tool to ensure whether they will improve the ELB errors made by the consultants.

Primary Data Collection Method

The primary method involves data collection directly from the first-hand source by the researcher (Sarstedt et al., 2019). The primary data collection method will include interviews and field observations. The interviews will be conducted with the electrical domain experts, including the consultant and engineers, to collect data. Moreover, discussing the most frequent errors in auditing ELBs. Secondly, through field observations of the technical drawings of ELBs, the data will be assembled regarding frequent errors. It was noticed that consultants committed the most mistakes and the period for each case. In that case, the data will assist in enhancing the ELB auditing process and adopting them quickly.

Secondary Data Collection Method

The secondary method involves acquiring information from someone instead of an actual user, thus being readily available for use (Prashar, 2020). Regarding the secondary data collection method, the literature review from journals, conference papers, and databases, including SCOPUS, EBSCO, Proquest, and Google Scholar, will be used to gather information by reviewing twenty sources. The DEWA Circular & Regulation Book and SEWA Rules and Regulation Book will be used to gather data as it gives massive information regarding the company in the study question.

Data Analysis

Statistical analysis will be applied in data analysis, such as regression, correlation, and ANOVA. Hence, this will help establish the natural causes of variations in the ELB process. In that case, the impact of one variable over the other will be measured and authenticate or disapprove available hypotheses on what is causing the frequent electrical drawing defects (Sarstedt et al., 2019). The solutions obtained will be formed and tested.

Case Study

In order to get a tangible, contextual, and in-depth understanding of an actual issue, a case study is the ideal research design. It allows one to delve further into the case’s essential traits, meanings, and ramifications (Umar, 2018). The Authority will be used as the case study. It is located in the United Arabs Emirates (UAE), a government facility providing residents with water and electricity. It has over 4500 employees and over 35 branches countrywide. The Authority is a state-owned enterprise business (Umar, 2018). Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC) methodology will help eliminate inconsistencies in the ELBs when assessing and auditing ELBs from consultants to ensure they meet the requirements resulting in a shorter approval time. As a result of this achievement, project approval times will be reduced.

The ‘define’ phase will establish the project scope and limits and give team members duties. The process map tool is used in this initial DMAIC stage. The second phase is ‘measure, ‘which will identify the highest triggers of ELB defects (Newbery et al., 2021). The data collection plan is deployed in the second process. In the ‘analyze’ phase, the root causes of the ELB’s defects and failures will be established, and strategies for improving them will be adopted. The correlation analysis was used to identify the relationships between the variables. The ‘improve’ stage will minimize the quality issues of the ELBs. The management tools, including risk assessment, will be used to create future improvements. The ‘control’ phase will concentrate on sustainability and checking the ongoing performance (Riva et al., 2019). The control plan tool will be used in this phase to ensure documentation and institutionalization of ELB enhancements via training all wiring operators.

Initial Findings

Define Phase

Limited experts in ELB-specialized companies monitor ELBs per the authority prerequisites. The research aims to resolve the approval delays encountered by ELB and suggest improvements. Figure 3 represents how many ELB approval revisions from the Authority’s consultants cause time wastage. The case study shows that constant ELB revisions indicate that the consultants are developing defective electrical for the clients, which may cause fire and deny the accessibility to the plan during an emergency. After rectifying, the client’s safety is enhanced as they receive a building free from electrical defects.

The primary problem is approval delays due to non-compliant ELBs done by consultants. The issue can be pinpointed by undertaking ELB auditing and stabling whether they need revisions. The occurrence of revisions indicates a present issue that needs to be corrected. Undertaking Figure 3 illustrates the process map for the defined phase.

Measure Phase

An employee with direct information flow from the Authority gathered the available data. The worker determined the time taken for ELB approval and the number of faults in each ELB committed by every Authority’s consultant. [Refer to Appendix A]. The data on cable properties, rating, type of cable, ID, size, type of meters, and the number of required sockets, will be needed to reduce the approval and auditing time for the ELB by the consultants. Some calculation errors include earth electrode, matching the data, and rating of ct meter, while design faults are isolator, manhole location, and DB location. Lead times will be measured in days, while the total number of units will be measured in whole numbers. Figure 4 illustrates the data set for the number of ELB revisions.

The data gathered and measured indicate that matching data involves a parameter with optimum approval and auditing number of days (43). Table 2 indicates data error matching as the ELB process entails electrical cables and wires mismatch, which consumes the consultant’s time. In addition, the elect room and DB location areas (with 0 faults) have fewer errors, as the consultant easily analyzed how they relate to the building’s general layout.

The elect room location has a minimum value of 0, as this certain error results in financial fees and a lower chance of rising faults. The average lead time (time taken to establish faults) was 17.5161 (obtained by computing the average of all lead times). Several locations such as ELB1, ELB2, ELB4, ELB5, ELB6, ELB7, ELB8, ELB10, ELB11, ELB12, ELB15, ELB17, ELB18, ELB22, ELB23, ELB24, and ELB24 have lead times below average. In summary, a total of 17 test has a lead time below the average. The test cases, including ELB3, ELB9, ELB14, ELB16, ELB17, ELB19, ELB20, ELB21, ELB25, ELB26, ELB28, ELB29, ELB30, and ELB31, have lead times equivalent to or above 17.5161 days.

As evidenced, most delays in obtaining ELB approvals arise from auditing and non-compliance as the 1 value for consultants involved. The complex calculation and measurement tasks required make the consultants perform crucial mistakes. For example, this aspect makes consultant J take 46 days to get ELB approval and is mandated to ensure that the layout measurement is within the standard ranges, prompting them to make errors. From the gathered data (attached in the appendix), most mistakes (about 43) are made by consultants through matching data on the ELBs. For this phase, the critical activity is contrasting different types of defects arising from various parameters and relating to the number of days multiple chosen contractors take to audit and approve the ELB. The results involve the scores of various consultants and how different parameters cause errors to sprout.

Table 2. matching of data error

Matching the data for ELB means:

1. Match DB load schedule in lighting & power layout & CKT. NOS.
2. Match DB load schedule in SMDB load schedule (check breakers cables phasing & loads ).
3. Matching SMDB load schedule in MDB load schedule (check breakers, cables, staging, kA rating, and loads).
4. Matching SMDB and MDB load schedules in SLDs (Check Cutters, Cables, kA & LOADS Ratings).
5. Matching A/C load summary values in calculations.

As shown in table 2, the number of lights in the layout is two connected to the (R1) phase and Two EX. The fan with two lights is connected to the (Y1) phase, while in the load schedule, Three lights are connected to the (R1) phase and two EX. A fan with 3 lights is connected to the (Y1) phase. The total connected load in the load schedule is 13.700kw, while 12.300kw in the single-line diagram

This mistake will lead to another issue: the total connected load for the project will be less or more than required. As a result, the information shown in the plan must coincide with that presented in the load schedule and SLD (single-line diagram).

Analyze Phase

The correlation analysis of two variables entailing the ELB errors caused by the consultant and the time needed to undertake revisions and rectifications is graphed in the analysis phase. Figure 5 shows a positive correlation between the number of days taken against the number of ELB revisions. Reducing the number of ELB revisions by the consultants can substantially lower the approval time and the period to rectify them.

Figure 5 shows a positive correlation between the number of lead days and the total number of errors. The number of lead days and the number of errors observed are highly concentrated around the mean values for the respective parameters.

Figure 6 gives a descriptive analysis summary intended to determine the statistical significance between the number of lead days and identified number of faults. The total number of errors recorded in the analysis is 31 within the 31 lead days analyzed. In addition, the ranger of statistics is 43, with a maximum statistic value of 3 and a corresponding maximum of 46. The total number of variables/values included in this case is 543, with a mean value of 17.5161 and a standard error of 1.76700, indicating that the samples are closely distributed to the standard mean. The standard deviation is 9.83826, with a statistical variance of 96.791.

The significant standard deviation indicates that the values are widely spread out, which is confirmed by the large variance. Regarding the skewness of the data analyzed, the standard error is 0.421 and a statistical value of 1.230, showcasing fewer errors. The kurtosis statistical value is 1.063, with a standard error of 0.833, implying the data set has a small tail.

Figure 7 illustrates a variance analysis on the lead days, with the sum of squares within groups being 931.267 and between groups being 1972.475, and shows the deviation of values from the actual mean. The DF value (number of items considered) between groups is 14, while within groups is 16. The F ratio is the quotient of the respective mean squares, while sig represents the p-value. The sin value of 0.046 (below 0.05) indicates a high statistical significance.

Figure 8 shows the type of errors highly made in the ELB against the cumulative percentage that causes delays in approval. For example, the primary fault was matching data with 43 problems committed by the consultants, with the highest cumulative percentage of 85%. It is followed by Case ID, electric room details, and the location of the cable tray in that order. The ONT socket, rating of ct meter, ring and radial circuit, location of the elect room, and DB location had 0 errors with a cumulative percentage of 0, indicating they were not recorded.

The Common Causes of the Errors Identified in the Case Study

• Processes, including matching data, involve electrical cables and wires mismatch, which consumes the consultant’s time. In addition, the procedure mandates the auditing personnel to follow all cables while adhering to the Authority’s policies.
• The complexity of calculation and measurement activities required spearhead consultants to make crucial mistakes. For instance, this aspect makes consultant J take 46 days to get ELB approval and is mandated to ensure that the layout measurement is within the standard ranges, prompting them to make errors.
• The lack of prior knowledge on auditing ELB is another source of defects.
• In addition, most consultants frequently make repeat errors, including those associated with properties, cable size, and related mistakes, since they do electrical design per their experience and not according to the authority prerequisites.
• Lastly, grade 1-rated consultants engage in the duties of grade 4 consultants while they have minimal experience with large projects.

The manufacturing industry uses the “5-whys” technique to investigate the root causes of major problems (Chiriani, 2021). Figure 9 showcases the reasons for the delay time in ELB approval

Causes and effects of Problems

The leading cause of the problem in the optimization phase is data mismatch. This data mismatch leads to another problem associated with the project under investigation in DMAC. If the data in the layout does not match the data in the load schedule and SLD down to the last detail, there is a mismatch. The effect of this problem in the project is that it causes stress and misunderstanding among the employees and poor-quality services due to the rush in the project, and submitted to the Authority ELB contains many mismatching errors.

The root of these problems is that many employees are working on one project without communication. For example, the consultant designs the building using AutoCAD software and distributes all the required components, such as lighting, sockets, air conditioners, and other required components, in the required number. On the other hand, another employee prepares a schedule of loads using Excel. This employee counts all the components placed in the layouts and determines the loads for each component. Due to the lack of communication between the consultant and the employee, many errors occur in mismatching the data. This problem opens up many problems. In addition, this error leads to inaccurate budgeting during construction projects. An inaccurate estimate can severely damage the financial outlook of a construction project. Accurate budget forecasts are essential to control costs and the rate of electricity generation for each project. Therefore, contractors need a direct means of documenting the task in their construction management system.

Improvement Phase

The main phase of DMAC is the improvement phase. The primary focus of the improved phase is identifying solutions to problems highlighted in the previous three stages of DMAC. During this phase, the possible causes of troubles will eliminate, and implements improvement plans. Errors in the construction process, such as incorrect calculations on electrical drawings or poor design, can cause significant delays in getting a project approved (Oza, 2022). This phase proposes solutions to the mismatching problem.

Proposed Solution: Revit Software

As a result of the literature review and interviews with the field experts, it is concluded that software with a Poka-Yoke control function would eliminate the problem of mismatching while creating the ELBs (Sulistianto & Nasihien, 2022). Poka-Yoke is the application of any mechanical device or method that either eliminates the potential for a mistake or quickly identifies when an error has occurred. It is often used in process analysis.

Poka-Yoke is a technique for preventing faults by checking that all necessary components are in place before proceeding with a process step. To the extent that this is not practicable, Poka-Yoke acts as a detective to find and eliminate process flaws as soon as they are detected (Quatrini et al., 2020).

Poka-Yoke is valuable because it ensures that processes and people are set up for success from the get-go. The elimination of flaws using these methods can greatly boost the quality and reliability of products and operations (Quatrini et al., 2020). This manufacturing method is well suited to the ever-present pursuit of excellence that characterizes the Lean management toolkit. This method can also benefit process designs and enhancements made in a Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) six sigma initiative. Poka-Yoke is a set of simple ideas and approaches that can be applied to designing products and processes to prevent human and mechanical mistakes.

Revit software is better than AutoCAD in matching the data. Unlike in Revit, where matching is handled automatically, in AutoCAD, it is mandatory first to construct the layouts and distribute the appropriate component on it, then count each component individually and put it in the load schedule established in Excel Sheet (Quatrini et al., 2020). Providing quality, precision, and control, Revit is more than simply software; it is a vital tool for professionals who produce projects for civil construction. Revit is a need for anyone seeking employment or advancement in the fields of architecture, engineering, or interior design

In the Revit software, the program must be defined for each component and in which DB will be present. After placing the component in the layout, it will be automatically placed in the load schedule in the same software. First of all, each component is labeled, the load, and in which DB is present as shown in figure 10, then will put the component in the correct place in the layout according to figure 11, automatically the component will place in the correct load schedule with the correct data as depicted in figure12.

Table comparing two software: AutoCAD and Revit Software.

Using Revit software is more accurate and efficient than using AutoCAD. AutoCAD is design software, while Revit is building information modeling (BIM) software. In contrast to AutoCAD, which is more of a general-purpose drawing tool, Revit is a design and documentation solution that can be used throughout a building project, from planning to construction documentation. The consultant explained how to use the Revit software and its efficiency.

The use of Revit software resulted in improved design accuracy, a significant plus for a wide range of projects. The Revit program has revolutionized the use of drawings for architectural modeling and documentation. From 30 to 10 days, using Revit software as a solution to mismatching, specialists can use Revit software’s design planning and construction accuracy. With the use of Revit software, teams worked together on projects more precisely, knowing that any changes made in one part of a drawing would be reflected accurately across the board before the Implementation of Revit software; there was no teamwork during the project delivery.

Using Revit, the project’s data is consolidated into a single location, and there is no need to search elsewhere. People found that having everything in one place helps us save money and keeps everyone informed. The skilled BIM team can help with any facet of the design. Parametric modeling, taxonomies, item attribution, and other Revit features are included. Enterprise-level technical solutions for large corporations, medium-sized organizations, and new ventures drive the team.

Control phase

Training of the employees for the software use

The consultants play a significant role in ensuring that the project is completed at the right time. They should be trained on the knowledge of Revit software to learn presentation skills, gain valuable exposure to BIM and maximize design possibilities. Drawing on the expertise of authority engineers as a shared resource (Dogan and Gurcan, 2018). The consultant will use the Revit software approach to improve their knowledge and abilities, leading to more efficient issue resolution. Therefore, all the consultant engineers receiving high stars despite having decreased ratings will have improved experience in improving the electrical drawings, making them error-free.

Some solutions can be implemented by the Authority that will help improve the consultant’s performance by training them each quarter of the year to take the experience from the authority engineers and share knowledge about Revit software. Thus, this is done because most consultants have good knowledge of AutoCAD. Moreover, the Authority can charge fees for each revision (Sulistianto & Nasihien, 2022). This way, the consultant will take the project seriously and work as hard as possible to deliver a flawless ELB. Furthermore, the Authority can force the consultant to work on only one project until he obtains approval and is also allowed to work on a new project. In this way, the consultant will focus more on the project in his hands, which will reduce the percentage of errors and get approval faster.

Regular updates and maintenance of the system

Regular updates and maintenance of the software system should be implemented at appropriate intervals to control mismatching data. Regular system maintenance reduces the risks of hacking and overloads, reducing the chances of system failures and improving the operations to ensure that the data mismatching problem is controlled (Suofian, 2022). To safeguard the system and ensure improvements in producing correct results, the system needs to be analyzed to prevent errors in the Revit software. In order to reduce costs and make repairs and maintenance more manageable, it is recommended to use Revit Drawings, which provide a perspective and 3D view of the system. Well-maintained Revit software locates the type of defects in the building, identifies the defective material, and inspects the maintenance dates. Regular updates ensure that the system is efficient in solving the problem of data mismatching.

Discussion of results

Revit software is a suitable method of solving data mismatching because it provides high-quality construction materials, allowing for more economical usage of the same components after they have been decorated. With this information, the maintenance crew can make the best possible call regarding necessary replacements (Mohamed et al., 2021). Revit software will explain every aspect of the building materials so they can be reused at a reduced cost. The maintenance team can now decide about any replacements that require updates. The use of Revit in the design of hostels allows for consolidating numerous drawings into a single program, making for more technically sound strategies.

Revit software helps simplify the maintenance process, giving the team a quick view of their location and the needed materials (Matos et al., 2021). Leaks can be detected quickly and at specific locations within the building, facilitating defect localization and reducing wasted time and resources (Suofian, 2022). Initial anticipated costs for the problem correction allow for more precise budget allocation. The data gathered by the tool facilitates educated repair decisions and streamlines the process overall.

Conclusion and Recommendation

To a greater extent, the ELB errors committed by the authority consultants tend to cause many revisions to obtain the approvals. The key findings established a stronger correlation between data mismatching and the lack of trained consultants. Some of the design and the errors committed by the consultant may take different lead times to rectify. Measure stage, the duration required for the approval of the revised ELBs will be determined. More data are collected during the analysis phase to ensure the examined data reflects the root causes of the ELB errors. The improvement phase provides the solution to the data mismatching by using Revit software to correct the data mismatching efficiently. Lastly, during the control phase, the obtained solutions are validated, and all related changes, such as regular updates and training consultants, will be implemented.

Creating an artificial intelligence program that reads and corrects errors such as cable size rating of CB type of meter, earth electrode, location of cable tray, fault levehe sensor for the light, cable properties, and w/p socket. It will reduce the error by a high percentage, which will contribute to delivering ELB to the Authority with the least possible percentage of errors. All future complicated decision-making will rely on the foundation of artificial intelligence, the basis of all computer teaching (Quatrini et al., 2020). Using AI machines to resolve data mismatches has many benefits, including retaining the highest possible degree of accuracy, acting quickly and reliably, examining data with greater depth than humans, and arriving at decisions quickly.

Some solutions should be implemented by the Authority that will help improve the consultant’s performance by training them each quarter of the year to take the experience from the authority engineers and share knowledge. Moreover, the Authority can charge fees for each revision. This way, the consultant will take the project seriously and work as hard as possible to deliver a flawless ELB. Furthermore, the Authority can force the consultant to work on only one project until he obtains approval, allowing him to work on a new project. In this way, the consultant will focus more on the project in his hands, which will reduce the percentage of errors and get approval faster.

The consultants play a significant role in ensuring that the project is completed at the right time. Therefore, to guarantee to delivery of faultless ELB, the consultants should establish quarterly training sessions for consultants, drawing on the expertise of authority engineers as a shared resource (Dogan and Gurcan, 2018). The consultant will use the DMAC approach to improve their knowledge and abilities, leading to more efficient issue resolution. Therefore, all the consultant engineers receiving high stars despite having decreased ratings will have improved experience in improving the electrical drawings, making them error-free.

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Appendices and Abbreviations

Appendix A. Data Set

Data Set for Number of Elb Revision

Fig 12: load schedule in Revit software.

List of Abbreviations