Research Questions Case Study Research Methodology
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the largest category. At the same time, Ibrahim and Fay 2006 argued that the design process is a tacit dominant stage. Unfortunately, there is a lack of literature on
transferring tacit knowledge according to Alavi and Leidner 2001. With support from Ibrahim Paulson 2008 stating that knowledge type contributes to the
knowledge loss phenomenon, this study posits whether or not it is possible to mitigate time and cost overrun if tacit knowledge transfer is facilitated.
Nissen 2006 further explained in his multidimensional model for product life cycle that the knowledge transferred to other experts through sharing the experience is of
tacit type. According to his model, tacit knowledge comes from heavy mass and contributes to long flow time. Hence, knowledge transfer is improved through this
phase by finding a way to convert tacit knowledge that has to be exchanged between experts during conceptual design stage to the explicit type. Many professionals from
various fields such as mechanical, electrical, and structural professions are involved during conceptual design stage.
So far, many researchers have recognized mechanical and electrical considerations as the most problematic areas during conceptual design phase. Furthermore, this study
has predominantly concentrated on mechanical and electrical considerations due to existing time limitation. Therefore, the main research question of this study is: “How
can tacit knowledge of design requirements be formalized for improving knowledge flow among professionals during conceptual design phase of building projects?”
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In design phase, mechanicalelectrical requirements are the most problematic considerations. Thus, this study develops Sub-RQs pertaining to such considerations.
The Sub-RQs of this study include:
Sub-RQ1: What are techniques to formalize mechanicalelectrical knowledge
of design requirements during conceptual design phase of building projects? Sub-RQ2: What are the required mechanicalelectrical knowledge during the
conceptual design phase of building projects? Sub-RQ3: How do architects and mechanicalelectrical engineers know when
to transfer the required knowledge for improving conceptual design phase of building projects?