CIV 8345 Management of Human Resources - Key Terminology Flashcards

Subcontractors

Specialized firms that undertake specific construction activities such as electrical work, plumbing or roofing.

Design Professionals

Architects, engineers and designers who develop project plans and specifications.

Labour Shortages

A shortage of skilled labour associated with an ageing workforce and declining interest among younger people, with possible effects on project time and cost.

Hierarchy

A workforce structure in which project managers and executives are at the top, site managers and supervisors occupy middle management, and skilled and unskilled labourers form the base.

Sustainability

Growing use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs and sustainable construction methods requiring specialized knowledge and skills.

Globalization

Increasing cross-border construction operations and international sourcing of labour and materials, exposing workers to diverse regulations and cultural practices.

Unionized Workforce

A workforce in which unions negotiate wages, working conditions and benefits and may influence labour supply and project timelines.

Project Managers

Professionals responsible for planning, executing and closing projects while ensuring time, cost and quality requirements are met.

Training and Development

Continuous professional development through apprenticeships, vocational training and certification to keep workers current with industry standards and technologies.

Suppliers

Organizations that provide materials, equipment and services and support timely availability of construction resources.

Technological Advancements

The use of BIM, automation and prefabrication to improve efficiency, accuracy and safety while creating new skill requirements.

Skill Levels

A construction workforce structure consisting of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers.

Economic Fluctuations

Construction sensitivity to economic cycles, where downturns may delay or cancel projects and booms may increase demand for labour and materials.

Financiers

Banks and financial institutions that provide funding for construction projects.

Contractors

Main organizations responsible for overall project execution, including subcontractor management, procurement and regulatory compliance.

Health and Safety

Use of strong safety protocols, PPE and regular safety training to reduce workplace accidents and injuries.

Subcontracting

The outsourcing of specialized construction tasks to specialist firms, providing flexibility and access to specialized skills but requiring careful coordination.

Regulatory Bodies

Government agencies and authorities that enforce building codes, safety regulations and environmental standards.

Demand Forecasting

Predicting future workforce needs using historical data and project requirements.

Supply Analysis

Assessing the current workforce in terms of skills, experience and availability.

Manpower Planning

Forecasting future human-resource needs and developing strategies so the right number of people with the right skills are available at the right time.

Succession Planning

Identifying and developing internal candidates for key future positions.

Human Relations

The management of workplace relationships in order to improve how people communicate, collaborate, behave and remain motivated.

Empathy

Understanding other people's perspectives and feelings in workplace relationships.

Job Satisfaction

The degree of fulfilment and contentment employees experience regarding the work environment, role clarity and compensation.

Integrity

Adhering to moral and ethical principles with honesty and accountability.

Active Listening

A communication practice that requires careful attention to and understanding of what others are saying.

Mentorship

A leadership-development approach that pairs less experienced personnel with experienced leaders for guidance.

Equity Theory

Adams' fairness model in which workers compare their input-output ratio with that of others.

360-Degree Feedback

A multi-source performance-evaluation method used in leadership development.

Transformational Leadership

A leadership approach based on inspirational vision, individual attention, intellectual stimulation and ethical role modelling.

Theory X

McGregor's traditional assumption that workers dislike work, avoid responsibility and require close control.

Theory Y

McGregor's assumption that work can be natural and satisfying and that workers can be self-motivated and seek responsibility.

Servant Leadership

A leadership approach that prioritizes follower needs, development, empowerment, ethical conduct and community.

Transactional Leadership

A leadership approach emphasizing routine operations, established procedures and reward or penalty systems linked to performance.

Situational Leadership

A leadership approach that adapts style to worker development level and the circumstances.

The effectiveness, efficiency, quality and safety with which individuals and teams execute work responsibilities to achieve project objectives.