_____________________________________________________________________________ Curriculum Vitae for Zofia K. Rybkowski, PhD Date of this version: August 20, 2016 Page | 1 CURRICULUM VITAE Zofia K. Rybkowski, PhD Associate Professor, Department of Construction Science Fellow, Center for Health Systems and Design Fellow, Institute for Applied Creativity Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3137 [email protected]; 979-845-4354 (o); 979-446-2228 (c) _______________________________________________________________________ AREAS OF RESEARCH INTEREST Innovations in construction management: lean construction and lean metrics, lean game theory, lean behavioral simulations, target value design, life cycle cost analysis, environmentally sustainable architecture and construction, line-of-balance scheduling, evidence-based design for healthcare facilities, Integrated Project Delivery, self-regulating building systems EDUCATION PhD, Civil and Environmental Engineering, 2009 Certificate in Management of Technology, 2009 MS, Civil and Environmental Engineering, 2005 MPhil, Civil Engineering, 2004 MArch, Architecture, 1991 MS, Biology, 1987 BS, Biology, Phi Beta Kappa,* 1985 University of California, Berkeley University of California, Berkeley University of California, Berkeley Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Harvard University Graduate School of Design Brown University Stanford University *Phi Beta Kappa is a national honor society for undergraduate scholarly achievement. Approximately 10% of the graduating class at Stanford University is elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Dissertation and Theses: Rybkowski, Z. K. (2009). “The Application of Root Cause Analysis and Target Value Design to Evidence-Based Design in the Capital Planning of Healthcare Facilities,” PhD dissertation, Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley. Committee: Dr. Iris Tommelein (chair); Dr. Glenn Ballard, and Dr. Sara Beckman. [Cited by 19] Rybkowski, Z. K. (2004). “Toward Energy Sustainability in Hong Kong: A Life Cycle Cost Analysis Case Study on Low Thermal Energy Transfer Envelopes for a Mid-Rise Commercial Building,” MPhil Thesis, Civil Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong. Committee: Dr. Moe MS Cheung (Chair), Dr. JS Kuang, Dr. GH Chen, and Dr. Irene Lo. Rybkowski, Z. K. (1991). “School for biology teachers: a memory theater of modern consequence,” MArch Thesis, Architecture, Harvard Graduate School of Design, Cambridge, MA. Thesis chair: Mr. Jorge Silvetti.
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_____________________________________________________________________________Curriculum Vitae for Zofia K. Rybkowski, PhD
Date of this version: August 20, 2016
P a g e | 1
CURRICULUM VITAE
Zofia K. Rybkowski, PhD Associate Professor, Department of Construction Science
Fellow, Center for Health Systems and Design
Fellow, Institute for Applied Creativity Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3137
(CAREER: Faculty Early Career Development Program)
Position: Principle Investigator (sole)
Duration: February 2015-January 2020
Amount: $400,000
2014 Title: Optimization of Construction Operations through a Value Resource
Mapping System - A Multiple Related Complex System Based on
Organizations' Core Activities
Sponsor: National Science Foundation, Engineering and Systems Design
Position: Co-Principal Investigator (33.3%), with PI Jose Fernandez-Solis
and Co-PI Boong Ryoo
Duration: September 2014-August 2017
Amount: $628,623
2014 Title: Automating Construction Optimization through a Reliability
Modification Rate - a Multiple Related Complex System Approach
based on Game Theories
Sponsor: National Science Foundation
Position: Co-Principal Investigator (33.3%), with PI Jose Fernandez-Solis
and Co-PI Boong Ryoo
Duration: May 2014-April 2017
Amount: $503,536
Not Funded: Competitive Internal
2015 Title: Smart Buildings: A Vertically Integrated Multidisciplinary
Educational Program
Sponsor: 2015 Tier One Program (TOP): Integration of Multidisciplinary
Research and Creative Activities into the Learning Experience
(TAMU)
Position: Co-PI, with PI Ergun Akleman and co-PI Tahir Cagin, co-PI
Thomas McKnight, and co-PI Terry Creasy
Duration: 3 years
Amount: $270,000
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2013 Title: Cultural exploration of stakeholder tendencies for alignment and
mis-alignment during Integrated Project Delivery
Sponsor: Construction Industry Advisory Council (CIAC), TAMU
Position: Principal Investigator (sole)
Duration: January 2014-December 2014
Amount: $25,000
RESEARCH
Total number of citations: 134 (Includes citation of dissertation; see page 1)
h-index:7
All counts are according to Google Scholar, as of September 8, 2015
Note:
Citations follow the ASCE format
Student authors are indicated by an asterisk*
PUBLICATIONS
Peer-reviewed Journal Articles, published
“A*” rated journal: “Virtually all papers they publish will be of a very high quality. These are journals where most of the
work is important (it will really shape the field) and where researchers boast about getting accepted,” according to the
Australian Research Council (ARC), a governmental authority sponsored by the Australian Government. PESA (2011).
<http://www.pesa.org.au/html_new/quality.htm>, September 21, 2011.
* * *
Rybkowski, Z. K., Shepley, M. M., Bryant, J. A., Skelhorn, C., Amato, A., and Kalantari, S. (2016).
“Facility management in Qatar: Current state, perceptions, and recommendations,” Facilities,
Manuscript ID f-06-2016-0070. Accepted for publication with minor revisions.
(ISSN: 0263-2772)
Abstract: PURPOSE. This study aimed to identify the current challenges and opportunities faced by facility
managers (FMs) in Doha, Qatar. DESIGN. Researchers queried 40 FMs about their experience working in
Qatar, using interviews and workshops. FINDINGS. Comments gathered followed general patterns.
Participants expressed appreciation for their work, but also concern about cultural challenges they faced
managing facilities in the region. In general, it was agreed that the low cost of water and energy in Qatar
is one of the largest obstacles to conserving resources; however current consumption is not sustainable.
RESEARCH LIMITATIONS. The sensitive nature of this study made strict demands on the research team
to maintain participant anonymity during data collection and reporting. This sensitivity also limited the
sample size; a larger sample size for future research would support greater generalizability. SOCIAL
IMPLICATIONS. Qatar is taking steps to reduce its per capita carbon footprint and energy use, which is
among the highest in the world. However, there appears to be a disconnect between Qatar’s expressed
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intentions and its actions with respect to facility management. To ensure that Qatar manages resources
more efficiently, participants recommended that reduced energy use standards be adopted and legally
mandated. This action would address many of the challenges, incentivise increased qualifications and
training of FM professionals working in Qatar, and encourage improvement of the long-term performance
of buildings which are energy drains and heavy contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
ORIGINALITY/VALUE. Prior to this study little has been published about current practices of facility
management in Doha, Qatar, and the challenges and opportunities that facility managers (FM) face in this
region.
Nanda, U., Rybkowski, Z. K., Pati, S., Nejati, A. (2016). "A Value Analysis of Lean Processes in
Target Value Design and Integrated Project Delivery: Stakeholder Perception," Health Environments
Research and Design Journal (HERD), Manuscript ID HERD160015.R1. Revised and accepted for
publication.
(Note: HERD is one of the only currently existing peer-reviewed journals dedicated exclusively to evidence-based design
of healthcare facilities) (ISSN: 1937-5867 print, 2167-5112 online)
Abstract: OBJECTIVE. To investigate what key stakeholders consider to be the advantages and the
opportunities for improvement in using lean thinking and tools in the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)
process. METHOD. A detailed literature review was followed by case study of a Lean-IPD project.
Interviews with members of the Project Leadership Team, focus groups with the integrated team as well
as the design team, and an online survey of all stakeholders were conducted. ANALYSIS. Statistical
analysis and thematic content analysis were used to analyze the data, followed by a plus-delta analysis.
RESULTS. 1) Learning is a large, implicit benefit of Lean-IPD that is not currently captured by any success
metric; 2) The cardboard mock-up was the most successful lean strategy; 3) Although a collaborative
project, the level of influence of different stakeholder groups was perceived to be different by different
stakeholders; 4) Overall Lean-IPD was rated as better than traditional design-bid-build methods; and 5)
Opportunities for improvement reported were increase in accurate cost estimating, more efficient use of
time, perception of imbalance of control/ influence, and need for facilitation (which represents different
points of view). CONCLUSION. While lean tools and an integrated project delivery method are preferred
to traditional design-bid build methods, the perception of different stakeholders varies and more work
needs to be done to allow a truly shared decision making model. Learning was identified as one of the
biggest advantages.
Fernández-Solis, J. L., Rybkowski, Z. K., Xiao, C.,* Lü, X., and Chae, L. S. (2015). “General
contractor’s project of projects--a meta-project: Understanding the new paradigm and its implications
through the lens of entropy,” Architectural Engineering and Design Management, 11(3), 213-242.
(ISSN: 1745-2007 print, 1752-7589 online)
[Cited by 1]
Abstract: Why do Koskela and others argue that the underlying theory of project management (PM) is
obsolete? Project management works for the manufacturing industry, and for the construction industry at
both the physical production level and the subcontractor level. Stakeholders, including the owner (along
with due diligence, and O&M teams), architect (and the design team), general contractor (and its
subcontractor team) create, transmit, process, manage and use information. The boundary between
information (creation and transmission) and physical production is where PM controls and predicts cost
and schedule and where quality controls fail to work as intended. This paper argues that subcontractors
give project numbers for the physical part of the project, while general contractors' project numbers are
actually a project of projects (those of the subcontractors). The general contractor manages a meta-project
(term and definition, as related to building construction, coined by Fernandez-Solis). The meta-project
paradigm has significant consequences and is the key to a novel understanding of the general contractor
role. Lean construction's percent (or promise) plan complete (PPC) gages the reliability of promises made,
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is a useful and viable indicator of the quality of the schedule, and serves as a surrogate measure of project
flow – how smoothly or chaotically a project runs. The PPC is operationalized as an index that meta-project
stakeholders can use to calibrate the reliability of work in progress and provide feedback on the
predictability/variability of logistic plans. The methodology of this paper uses conceptual analysis, the
metonymic mapping of key concepts from the thermodynamics domain to the construction domain and
showcases the concepts through PPC case studies. Information entropy theories are discerned in the PPC
reports. In conclusion, scientific information theories, principles and characteristics of flow, in contrast to
managerial principles, provide a clearer background for visualizing a novel understanding of the state of
the project flow at the meta-project level. It could be argued that this paper is about defining a reference
discipline and construed as “construction science viewed through the lens of entropy” but this is not the
focus of this paper but the topic of the next.
Bilbo, D., Bigelow, B. F, Rybkowski, Z. K. and Kamranzadeh, A.,* (2014). “Effects of family-
related factors on female project managers’ salaries in the construction industry in the United States,” International Journal of Construction Education and Research, 00:1-13.
(ISSN: 1557-8771 print, 1550-3984 online)
[Cited by 4]
Abstract: This study explores predictors of female project managers’ salary in the construction industry
and analyzes the relationship between salaries and specific variables. Although prior research indicates a
relationship does exist between certain variables and women’s salaries that research does not focus on the
construction industry. This research sought to identify correlations between experience, age, marital status,
motherhood, having children at home, and the number of children at home, and female project manager’s
salaries in the construction industry. To our knowledge, this study represents the only research of its kind
specific to women project managers in the U.S. construction industry. Utilizing a snowball sampling
method, 206 survey responses were collected and analyzed through comprehensive descriptive and
statistical analyses. A regression model was constructed to determine the predictive power of the variables
studied. Fifty percent of the variability in female project manager’s salary can be accounted for by the
model produced. The study’s sample showed that, being married and having children at home are
negatively correlated with female project managers’ salaries. As would be expected, age and experience
are also correlated and the correlation is strongly positive.
Shepley, M. M., Rybkowski, Z. K., Aliber, J., and Lange, C. (2012). "Ambulatory infusion suite:
Pre- and post-occupancy evaluation," Building Research and Information, 40(6), 700-712.
“A*” rated journal (ARC); Impact factor: 2.156
(ISSN: 0961-3218 print, 1466-4321 online)
[Cited by 2]
Abstract: An evaluation is presented of the experience of patients, families and staff in two infusion suites.
One infusion suite was a facility occupied until 2009 and the other suite was the replacement for that
facility. The primary design objectives of the new facility were to support social interaction, provide
opportunities for privacy and provide visual access to nature. The effectiveness of the new facility relative
to the old facility with regard to these three design objectives served as the source of hypotheses for the
study. Using a Likert-style survey and open-ended questions, the findings suggest that the new facility was
successful at addressing these design goals. Subjects were also queried regarding whether these design
objectives were important in an infusion suite. The vast majority of the respondents in the new facility
indicated that social interaction, privacy and access nature were important in this setting.
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Rybkowski, Z. K., Shepley, M. M., and Ballard, H. G. (2012). "Target Value Design: Applications
to newborn intensive care units," Health Environments Research and Design Journal (HERD), 5(4),
5-22.
(Note: HERD is one of the only currently existing peer-reviewed journals dedicated exclusively to evidence-based design
of healthcare facilities) (ISSN: 1937-5867 print, 2167-5112 online)
[Cited by 3]
Abstract: There is a need for greater understanding of the health impact of various design elements in
neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) as well as cost-benefit information to make informed decisions about
the long-term value of design decisions. This is particularly evident when design teams are considering the
transition from open-bay NICUs to single-family-room (SFR) units. This paper introduces the guiding
principles behind target value design (TVD)-a price-led design methodology that is gaining acceptance in
healthcare facility design within the Lean construction methodology. The paper also discusses the role that
set-based design plays in TVD and its application to NICUs.
Fernandez-Solis, J.L., and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2012). "A theory of waste and value," International
Journal of Construction Project Management, Vol. 4, Issue 2; ref: MS12-02-A135, 89-105.
(ISSN: 1944-1436)
[Cited by 4]
Abstract: Waste and value are ambiguous concepts, making it difficult to visualize where and how they
occur in construction. This paper visualizes waste and value in construction at three scales: systemic,
synergistic and discrete and from the perspectives of stakeholders: owners (strategic), middle managers
(logistics) and field personnel (tactical). This paper uses literature search, critical rationalism and theory
building to graphically depict how waste is unknowingly embedded in construction design and production.
This paper proposes that additional research is needed to measure synergistic and systemic waste and value.
Visualizing waste in construction is the point of departure for those seeking to find and minimize or
eliminate waste and create a theory for the discipline. The authors assert that the cost of waste + cost of
value = total cost, implying that, as the cost of waste decreases, the proportion of cost of value, vis-à-vis
the cost of the project, increases. This paper is aimed at stakeholders who want to better understand how
lean initiatives fit into the quest for value creation and waste elimination.
Rybkowski, Z. K., Zhou, X.,* Lavy, S. and Fernández-Solís, J. (2012). “Investigation into the nature
of productivity gains observed during the Airplane Game lean simulation,” Lean Construction
Journal, 78-90.
48% acceptance rate since journal founded in 2003
(ISSN: 1555-1369)
[Cited by 3]
Abstract: Research Question: What is the nature of productivity gains observed during live playing of the
lean simulation, the “airplane game”? Purpose: The purpose of this research is to investigate and identify
the nature of productivity gains observed during live playing of the lean simulation, the airplane game. The
intent is two-fold: (1) to identify the specific mechanistic impact of each lean principle, as it is successively
introduced; and (2) to identify the productivity contributions of non-mechanistic phenomena such as
learning curve and/or Hawthorne Effect. The game serves as a proxy for controlled experimentation in the
field—experimentation that is difficult to conduct on actual construction projects but that is important
when making claims regarding generalizability of results. Research Method: To identify the specific
mechanistic impact of each lean principle, researchers used Microsoft Excel to graphically map the airplane
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simulation, station-by-station and second-by-second. Metrics such as time to first batch, number of
successful planes and work-in-process were derived from the Excel graphic and evaluated after each round
to understand the specific impact of each successively-introduced lean principle. To identify the specific
impact of non-mechanistic processes on productivity (such as learning curve and Hawthorne effect),
researchers compared average results from live playings against results derived from the Excel graphic.
Findings: Comparison of results obtained from the Excel graphic demonstrate the following: (1) reducing
batch sizes primarily results in reduced time to first batch; transitioning from a push to pull system
primarily results in reduction of work-in-process; and transitioning from an uneven loading of work to a
work-leveled system primarily results in an increased amount of final product; and (2) the contribution of
productivity gains from non-mechanistic phenomena such as learning curve and/or Hawthorne effect is
relatively minor (i.e. approximately 70% of productivity gains in time to first batch can be attributable to
the mechanistic benefits from the four tested lean principles; 30% can be attributed to non-mechanistic
phenomena). Limitations: We chose a deterministic model to enhance clarity. However, a stochastic
simulation would have better represented time distributions observed in reality. Implications: Our results
are intended to help lean researchers and participants understand the nature of productivity gains observed
during live playing of the lean simulation, the “airplane game.” They are also intended to give lean
practitioners the assurance that, if performed correctly, introduction of lean principles on a construction
project will produce productivity gains. Value for practitioners: This paper is intended to address some
common concerns from players and to help inform those who administer the game.
Fernandez-Solis, J.L., Lavy, S., Porwal, V.,* Shaafat, A., Rybkowski, Z. K., Son, K., and Lagoo,
N.* (2012). "Survey of motivations, benefits and implementation challenges of Last Planner®
System Users," Journal of Construction Engineering and Management (ASCE), 139(4), 354-360.
“A*” rated journal (ARC); Impact factor: 2.36
(ISSN: 0733-9364 print, 1943-7862 online)
[Cited by 9]
Abstract: The number of construction project managers initializing the use of the Last Planner System of
Production Control (LPS), an operating system for project management designed to optimize work flow
and promote rapid learning, is rapidly increasing, motivated by industry trends and testimonials of its
perceived benefits. This study, limited to the building sector, is a systematic literature and testimonial
search of the perceived motivations and benefits or challenges for choosing LPS. It substantiates the claims
of those perceptions through a structured survey of senior and mid-level managers. Quantitative statistical
tools infer that practitioners who use LPS experience more reliable planning, better supply chain
integration, and less work flow time. However, managers who directly implement LPS are faced with
external resistance from clients and subcontractors, and feel that their organization does not offer the
necessary incentives for adopting LPS, indicating a possible clash of paradigms. The case studies and
testimonials were available in the literature referenced in the paper, but the survey and the method for
analysis are new and have not been published elsewhere, either wholly or in part.
Peer-reviewed Journal Articles, submitted and under review
Kalantari, S.,* Shepley, M. M., Rybkowski, Z. K., and Bryant, J. A. (2017 anticipated). “A model
for better integration of facility management perspectives in design,” Building Research and
Information (Manuscript ID 16BR0935-RE: Submitted and under review).
“A*” rated journal (ARC); Impact factor: 2.156
(ISSN: 0961-3218 print, 1466-4321 online)
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Kalantari, S.,* Shepley, M. M., and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2017 anticipated). “Collaboration between
designers and facility managers: Comparing the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Middle
East,” Building Research and Information (Manuscript ID f-08-2016-0081: Submitted and under
review).
(ISSN: 0263-2772)
Peer-reviewed Journal Articles, in preparation
Rybkowski, Z. K., and Kulkarni, A. (2016). Working title: “Cost comparison of early constructor
involvement project delivery methods versus late involvement project delivery methods," To submit
to: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management (ASCE).
Ramanath, V.,* Rybkowski, Z. K., Jahangiri, B* (2016). “Exploratory investigation into influence
of educational background on tendency to collaborate among owners, architects, engineers, and
contractors,” to submit to: Architectural Education and Design Management.
Peer-reviewed Conference Proceedings, published
“A” rated conference: “The majority of papers in a Tier A journal will be of very high quality,” according to the Australian
Research Council (ARC), a governmental authority sponsored by the Australian Government. PESA (2011).
<http://www.pesa.org.au/html_new/quality.htm>, September 21, 2011. Only 21% (414 of 1947 conferences listed) are
considered in this top category (“A” rated). “B” rated conference includes 27% or next 527 of 1947 conference listed.
Note: As of 2014, the IGLC conference has a 58% paper acceptance rate.
* * *
Rybkowski, Z. K., Munankami, M.,* Shepley, M. M., and Fernández-Solis, J. L. (2016).
“Development and testing of a lean simulation to illustrate key principles of Target Value Design: A
first run study.” Proceedings of the 24thannual conference for the International Group for Lean
Construction; July 20-22, 2016: Boston, MA, Sect. 4 pp. 133–142.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: Target Value Design (TVD) is increasingly being used for Lean-Integrated Project Delivery
processes—especially in the healthcare facility sector. However, the basic principles of TVD take time to
comprehend and can seem daunting when implemented for the first time on actual projects. The
QUESTION this research sought to address is: Can basic principles of TVD be effectively taught via a
relatively simple and brief simulation? The PURPOSE of this research was to develop and test a new
simulation that would clearly illustrate basic principles of TVD. The RESEARCH METHOD used for this
paper was the iterative development and testing a simplified simulation that modified and extended the
“marshmallow challenge” game developed by Peter Skillman. The TVD simulation was tested by
construction science students and design professionals in the US and Nepal. FINDINGS suggested the
simulation offers an effective way to convey basic TVD principles such as Estimated Cost, Market Cost,
Allowable Cost, and Target Cost, and designing to these parameters. The research had some
LIMITATIONS, namely that it primarily addressed functional issues as criteria for design success and did
not engage all aspects of TVD processes commonly used, such as A3 development, set-based design, or
decision-making using Choosing by Advantages. However, the IMPLICATIONS and VALUE of this work
are that the simulation appears to offer a simple, enjoyable, and effective way to introduce basic TVD
principles and their impact to stakeholders who are engaging in the practice for the first time.
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Neeraj, A.*, Rybkowski, Z., Fernandez-Solis, J.L., Hill, R., Tsao, C., Seed, B. and Heinemeier, D.
(2016). “Framework Linking Lean Simulation Principles to their Application on Construction
Projects.” Proceedings of the 24thannual conference for the International Group for Lean
Construction; July 20-22, 2016: Boston, MA, Sect. 9 pp. 3–12.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: The QUESTION this paper seeks to address is: Can the principles illustrated by Lean simulations
be systematically linked to applications of those principles on actual projects? The PURPOSE of this
research has been to ease the transition between theory and practice by aggregating published case studies
as well as lean simulations and making links between them. The RESEARCH METHOD adopted for this
study included: (1) prepare a systematic literature review sourced from LCI and IGLC databases; (2)
collaborate with the Lean Construction Institute to construct an inventory of existing lean simulations and
the principles they illustrate; (3) analyze published case studies and simulations for the lean principles they
embody; and (4) develop a matrix to establish logic connections between simulations and case studies from
actual projects. FINDINGS were assembled onto a Simulation/Case-study matrix. This research involved
locating, translating, and organizing 23 years of published, organically developed, construction case studies
from IGLC and LCI databases. Therefore one LIMITATION of this this research is that it included only
those simulations and case studies that have been published. One IMPLICATION and VALUE of this
research is that it offers a framework to assist lean educators and facilitators when teaching Lean
Construction. This matrix can also serve as a “seed” for various international communities to extend and
share how specific lean principles can be incorporated into their own cultural traditions within project
delivery processes.
Bhatt, Y.,* Rybkowski, Z. K., Kalantar, N., and Fernandez-Solis, J. L. (2016). “Trainathon Lean
Simulation Game: Determining Perceptions of the Value of Training Among Construction
Stakeholders.” Proceedings of the 24thannual conference for the International Group for Lean
Construction; July 20-22, 2016: Boston, MA, Sect.7 pp. 53-62.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: This research was prompted in part in response to a recent study by the Associated General
Contractors (AGC) that there is a shortage of trained, skilled labor in the construction industry and this
shortage is increasing. The QUESTION this paper seeks to address is: Why aren’t construction
stakeholders perceiving the value of training and development of employees? The PURPOSE of the
research is to develop and test a simulation that will help identify the way building stakeholders view the
impact of employee training on their long and short-term profit margins. The RESEARCH METHOD used
was two phased: (a) a preliminary phase involving the iterative development and testing of a 50-minute
table-top simulation using readily available materials; (b) a mature phase where results from a “perfected”
version of the game were subjected to statistical analysis from a larger participant pool. The trials each
team went through financially at each round were recorded and results recorded via cash flow diagrams.
FINDINGS suggest that players tend to underestimate the importance of upfront training and its impact on
long-term cash flows. LIMITATIONS of this research include a restricted sample size that was tested
during this phase. IMPLICATIONS and VALUE for this work are potentially larger than that of pure
research—i.e. as an opportunity to serve as a change agent as well since a number of respondents suggested
that the simulation made them think about the long-term value of training, illustrating the first principle of
The Toyota Way. This dual-role for simulations fits easily within the culture of lean construction which
historically has used simulations both to understand impacts of certain types of stakeholder behavior as
well as transfer comprehension of specific lean principles.
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Bhaidani, N.,* Rybkowski, Z., Smith, J., Choudhury, I., Hill, R. (2016). “Percent Planned Complete:
Development and Testing of a Simulation to Increase Reliability in Scheduling.” Proceedings of the
24thannual conference for the International Group for Lean Construction; July 20-22, 2016: Boston,
MA, Sect.7 pp. 33–42.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: This research responds to a perceived need to help construction management students and
industry stakeholders develop a solid understanding of the impact of Percent Planned Complete (PPC)
during their first exposure to the Last Planner System of Production Control™. Although the practice of
implementing PPC is becoming more widespread, the benefits of its use are arguably not yet fully
appreciated by industry practitioners. The QUESTION this research seeks to address is: How can the
impact of PPC be clarified to those who are exposed to it for the first time? The PURPOSE of the research
is to develop and test a new simulation to better understand how participants perceive the impact of using
PPC as a tool to measure and subsequently improve reliability in planning. With respect to RESEARCH
METHODS, a simulation was iteratively developed and a questionnaire was administered to participants
both before and after playing the simulation to perceive any change in their understanding of the PPC
method. The simulation was tested using students as subjects from two universities, as well as industry
professionals, and questionnaire results were analyzed. RESULTS demonstrate that playing the simulation
led to a 718% enhanced understanding of how applying PPC to schedule planning can lead to improved
reliability of performance. LIMITATIONS include time constraints which necessitated a limitation in the
number of test subjects, and the disregard of cultural differences in test subjects. Underlying the need for
this work is the assumption that comprehending the impact of PPC helps facilitate application of it.
IMPLICATIONS and VALUE of this work is that it has the potential to assist instructors and project
managers to more effectively and efficiently transfer understanding of PPC and its capacity to measure
(and therefore enhance) reliability, as part of the larger process of continuous improvement.
Kalyanaraman, N.,* Rybkowski, Z. K., Fernández-Solís, J. L., Mann, G. J., Neeraj, A.*
“Identification of Long-Term Learning Outcomes and Opportunities for Improvement from an
Interdisciplinary Course between Architecture and Construction Science,” Proceedings of the 52nd
ASC (Associated Schools of Construction) International Conference, April 13-16, 2016, Provo, Utah,
8 pp.
This longitudinal study reports on lessons learned from interdisciplinary courses between architecture and
construction science with a mix of former graduate and undergraduate students taught at Texas A&M
University at College Station. The study compares lessons learned from past research in interdisciplinary
studies in the architecture and construction curriculum with former student perceptions 11-16 years after
graduation. Previous research on learning outcomes from interdisciplinary architecture and construction
science curriculum have identified teamwork, mutual respect for other disciplines, real world
understanding, collaboration, coordination, and time management as the most important skills learned.
This study analyzes the impact of learning outcomes on the former students during their years of practice
and experience in the building industry. For this study 19 survey responses were collected from former
students who are currently working in practices or industries related to the built environment. A
quantitative and qualitative analysis of the data reveals that the former students highly value teamwork,
collaboration, and interdisciplinary understanding. Although the number of responses was statistically
limited, they nevertheless suggest there is value to such interdisciplinary courses within architecture and
construction science curricula for those who practice afterward in the building industry, and that this topic
warrants further study.
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Lee, S.,* Tabb, P., Rogers, J., Rybkowski, Z., Van Zandt, S. (2016). “The impacts of cost
Determinism in architectural foundation design education: An analysis of foundation design studio,”
Urban Planning and Architecture Design for Sustainable Development (UPADSD), 14-16 October,
2015, in: Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences 216, 923 – 932.
(Elsevier, peer-reviewed open access)
Abstract: This research concerns teaching cost as an integral design determinant during architectural
foundation design education. Design studio course descriptions, syllabi, and studio projects of selected
architectural foundation design programs were analysed and U.S.-based architectural educators and design
professionals were surveyed to investigate their perspectives and methods of teaching cost conscious and
economic design concepts in foundation design education. The result suggests that both academics and
design professionals value learning cost conscious and economic design concepts during foundation design
education. However, overall systematic studio courses which teach cost as an integral design determinant
were absent.
Rybkowski, Z. K. and Kahler, D. (2014). “Collective kaizen and standardization: the development
and testing of a new lean simulation,” Proceedings of the 22nd annual conference for the International
Group for Lean Construction; June 25-27, 2014: Oslo, Norway.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
(ISSN: 2309-0979)
Abstract: Simulations can offer a laboratory-like environment for controlled experimentation, as well as
immediate and convincing proof of the effectiveness of specified lean principles. At the heart of lean
thinking resides the concept of kaizen—or continuous improvement—and standardization, conducted
within a culture of respect. Effective use of collective kaizen and standardization capitalizes on the ability
of individuals to innovate, to learn from one another, and to improve their effectiveness, thus helping
managers improve time, cost, quality, safety and morale by engaging the employees they already have.
Despite the role of collective kaizen and standardization as seminal to the very definition of lean thinking,
there is no existing published lean construction simulation that focuses exclusively on the concept of
collective kaizen and standardization. This paper reports on the development and testing of a lean
simulation that focuses on collective kaizen and standardization. The simulation was developed by students
as the final project for a US-based university lean construction course consisting of upper-level
undergraduate and graduate-level construction science students. The simulation was inspired by primary
source writings of early twentieth century American psychologist and industrial engineer Lilliane Gilbreth
and efficiency engineer Frederick Winslow Taylor, and introduces simulation participants to the critical
concepts of collective kaizen and standardization. The simulation has been tested during three semesters
of courses dedicated to lean construction at the originating university, at two additional US universities,
and at two international-level lean construction and quality control conferences. Modifications have been
made based on preliminary feedback.
Smith, J. P.,* Rybkowski, Z. K., Bergman, M., Shepley, M., and Smith J. S. (2014). “Trust-builder:
A first-run study on active trust-building,” Proceedings of the 22 nd annual conference for the
International Group for Lean Construction; June 25-27, 2014: Oslo, Norway.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: Despite being a common theme in company mission statements and core values, the role of trust
receives little to no active consideration on the construction jobsite. This research attempts to lay the
foundation for additional research into trust-building in construction by determining whether or not trust
can be actively and deliberately managed by a conscientious and regular analysis of current and upcoming
relationships. Three key findings from the literature provide the groundwork for this research: (1) high
levels of trust between project participants increase productivity and enhance team performance; (2) trust
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is built or broken as a cumulative result of our actions and behaviors; and (3) trust levels can be accurately
measured. Using student groups as a sample, we tested to see if specific trust-building interventions could
be effectively introduced into group interactions. Results show some support for the theory that individuals
who deliberately initiated trust-building interventions perceived a higher overall change in trust level
towards their peers than other participants.
Rybkowski, Z. K., Abdelhamid, T., and Forbes, L. (2013). “On the back of a cocktail napkin: An
exploration of graphic definitions of lean construction," Proceedings of the 21st annual conference
for the International Group for Lean Construction; July 31-August 2, 2013: Fortaleza, Brazil, 83-92.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 3]
Abstract: Quick descriptive sketches made on the backs of cocktail napkins are a tradition in the
architectural profession and are representative of the visionary conversations that take place between
business associates in relaxed venues where fresh ideas are sometimes first hatched. In this paper, we
propose the use of this technique to better convey and capture the principles of the growing and evolving
discipline of Lean Construction. Whether they occur in academic classrooms or professional worksites,
exploratory conversations about Lean Construction also suggest there may be a need for an easy-to-
understand, easy-to-represent graphic definition (“cocktail napkin sketch”) that can quickly communicate
key components of lean thinking to those wishing to understand and potentially implement lean. This paper
shares an exploratory analysis of the results that emerged from cocktail napkin exercises administered three
times from Feb 2011 to April 2012: at an IGLC mid-year meeting in New York, NY; at an LCI workshop
in Houston, TX; and at an LCI-Academic Forum in Boulder, CO. Finally, the authors propose a graphic
definition of Lean Construction, distilled from submissions made during these events that might serve as
a potential starting point for future discussion and refinement.
Smith, J. P.* and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2013). “The Maroon and White Game: A simulation of trust
and long-term gains and losses," Proceedings of the 21st annual conference for the International
Group for Lean Construction; July 31-August 2, 2013: Fortaleza, Brazil, 987-996.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 1]
Abstract: This paper explains how to play and facilitate the Maroon-White Game—a modified version of
the Red-Black Game—which, like its predecessor, uses point maximization to motivate team performance.
The Red-Black Game was designed to demonstrate to players the advantages of systems thinking, as
opposed to sub-optimization, during a live playing of the game. Although effective in illustrating the
greater mathematic gains incurred from systems thinking to a community-at-large, the simulation might be
criticized in that obtaining a larger group gain appears to require individual diminishment—a practice that
may not be as easily embraced in capitalistic societies or in societies that cherish individualism over
collectivism. The Maroon-White Game is based on rules from the Red-Black Game, and is designed to
help participants recognize two main concepts relating to sub-optimization: (1) our natural tendency,
generally speaking, to sub-optimize in a competitive group setting; and (2) the effects of sub-optimization
on relational sustainability and long-term gains and losses. Examining results from multiple playings of
the Maroon-White Game illustrates the impact of trust—both earned and broken—on total point-based
gains and losses returned not only to the community-at-large, but also to individuals, over time.
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Tsao, C., Azambuja, M., Hamzeh, F., Menches, C. and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2013). “Teaching lean
construction: perspectives on theory and practice," Proceedings of the 21 st annual conference for the
International Group for Lean Construction; July 31-August 2, 2013: Fortaleza, Brazil, 977-986.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 4]
Abstract: This paper builds on a previous IGLC paper, “Different Perspectives on Teaching Lean
Construction,” presented by Tsao et al. that documented teaching approaches from three different Lean
Construction (LC) university course offerings. It aggregated the approaches taken by the course offerings,
the Lean Construction Institute (LCI), and the Associated General Contractors of America to develop basic
recommendations for learning modules, outcomes, and teaching strategies for an introductory LC
university course. This paper provides four additional distinct perspectives to continue the conversation
about teaching LC in a university setting. It illustrates the authors’ differences in teaching approaches,
experiences, and lessons learned from course offerings in the United States and Lebanon. The paper offers
additional ideas for providing “proof of concept” to students and further illustrates how teaching LC
effectively requires a combination of readings, lectures, discussions, simulation exercises, field trips, and
guest speakers to mix theory with action. The paper then aggregates seven teaching perspectives in a single
table to provide an overview of different approaches for teaching an introductory university-level course
on LC.
Kulkarni, A.,* Rybkowski, Z. K., and Smith, J.* (2012). “Cost comparison of collaborative and IPD-
like project delivery methods versus non-collaborative project delivery methods," Proceedings of the
20th Annual Conference for the International Group for Lean Construction; July 17-22, 2012: San
Diego, CA, U.S.A., 781-790.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 6]
Abstract: Purpose: Collaborative project delivery methods are believed to contribute to faster completion
times, lower overall project costs and higher quality. Contracts are expected to influence the degree of
collaboration on a given project since they allow or restrict certain lines of communication in the decision-
making process. Various delivery systems rank differently on the spectrum of collaboration. The purpose
of this study is to test if collaborative project delivery methods impart value. Ideally the most extreme
forms of project delivery methods, that is, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Design-Bid-Build (DBB),
should be compared to test the effects of collaboration on benefits to the owner. Due to difficulty in
obtaining data on IPD and similarly scaled DBB projects, for this study, their close cousins, CM-at-Risk
(CMR) and Competitive Sealed Proposal (CSP) were compared. Methodology: The study compared cost
performance and reducible change orders of 17 CMR and 13 CSP projects by the same owner. Findings:
The overall cost performance is more reliable for CMR than for CSP projects. The cost of reducible change
orders for all three categories (errors, omissions and design modifications) are lower for CMR than for
CSP projects, Implications: This study is expected to help boost confidence in the benefits of collaborative
project delivery methods. It is also likely that the results will encourage acceptance of IPD for public
projects.
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Rybkowski, Z. K., Munankami, M.,* Smith, J.,* and Kulkarni, A.* (2012). “Survey instrument to
facilitate continuous improvement of lean teaching materials: a first-run study," Proceedings of the
20th annual conference for the International Group for Lean Construction; July 17-22, 2012: San
Diego, CA, U.S.A., 641-650.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 2]
Abstract: Training workshops are a popular means to transfer knowledge of lean construction principles to
industry stakeholders. Although numerous workshops are being offered by various members of the lean
construction community, the amount of understanding that has been successfully transferred to participants
during a workshop is not always measured or known, making it difficult to assess success. The purpose of
this research is to develop and test an assessment instrument to indicate the level of understanding that was
transferred during a three-day lean construction workshop. Drawing on published and unpublished case
studies, we developed lean construction teaching materials for a three-day workshop and tested them on a
healthcare facility owner and its most frequently engaged architects, engineers, general contractors and
trade partners. To test the effectiveness of the teaching materials, we developed an anonymous, paired,
pre-and post-workshop assessment survey instrument. Participants were asked to (a) rate their level of
confidence in their understanding of lean construction principles, and (b) provide specific examples of
potential application of the named principles. Participants rated their confidence levels in understanding of
specific lean principles higher after the workshop than before (all comparisons of means were statistically
significant to p<=0.05). Also, participants described twice as many potential construction applications of
lean principles after the workshop than before, implying an increased level of understanding which
translated into actionable items. Results from this research suggest that the lean workshop format delivered
was relatively effective in transferring basic knowledge and application of lean principles. However, there
is also clear need to continually improve our workshop teaching materials.
Smith, J.* and Rybkowski, Z. (2012). “Literature review on trust and current construction industry
trends," Proceedings of the 20th annual conference for the International Group for Lean
Construction; July 17-22, 2012: San Diego, CA, U.S.A.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 4]
Abstract: There is a growing body of evidence supporting the theory that project performance can be
assisted by increased levels of trust. Trust in construction has received some academic attention but
warrants more. This research provides additional rationale and foundational support for the advancement
of knowledge regarding trust in construction. Specifically, we emphasize the role of chosen project delivery
method and its impact on trust levels. We conducted an extensive literature review on trust and pertinent
concepts were collected for application to the construction industry. Extant literature indicates a high level
of relevance and applicability of trust research to construction issues. It seems probable that the chosen
project delivery method plays a major role in the resultant levels of trust between project participants.
Recent evolutions in project delivery methods and support systems, such as Integrated Project Delivery
and Lean Construction are argued by their supporters to be more effective at maintaining high levels of
trust than traditional methods. Results from this research suggest that academicians and industry
practitioners alike who value trust should consider the ramifications of their current practices on the
subject. Further research is required to determine if IPD, relational contracting, and lean construction are
capable of systemically supporting higher levels of trust than traditional methods.
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Rybkowski, Z. K., Munankami, M.,* Gottipati, U.,* Lavy, S., and Fernández-Solis, J. (2011).
“Impact of cost constraints on aesthetic ranking following Target Value Design exercises,”
Proceedings of the 19th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, Lima,
Peru, July 13-15, 448-457.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 10]
Abstract: Purpose: Target Value Design (TVD) is a project delivery subset that shares methodologies with
Target Costing and Value Engineering, but is performed within the context of lean construction. TVD has
been shown to generate first cost savings of approximately 20% on case study projects. A concern voiced
by some architects, however, is that TVD may produce aesthetically inferior designs. Addressing this
concern, we explore whether there is a relationship between cost and aesthetics. Methodology: Eighteen
postgraduate-level university students were asked to design a functional wine stand using a restricted pallet
of materials—Styrofoam cups and plates and 8 1/2” x 11” sheets of paper within one hour—(a) without
cost constraints and (b) with cost constraints. The resulting wine stands were photographed and then
graphically rendered to remove confounding variables, permitting comparisons between them. Over one
hundred twenty subjects were surveyed and asked to rank the stands according to their preferences. Ratings
were then correlated with costs using Spearman’s Rank-Order coefficient. Findings: We found there was
a very mild negative correlation (rs=-0.214) between final cost of the individual stands and their aesthetic
rankings. The result suggests that popular aesthetic preference, as measured in wine stand design, is very
slightly correlated with higher cost, and that other factors (not investigated) have a greater influence on
aesthetic rankings. Implications: The findings suggest that TVD does not necessarily compromise the
popular aesthetic quality of a simple product design, such as a wine stand, and similarly, may not
substantially compromise the final aesthetic of building design.
Rybkowski, Z. K. (2010). “Last Planner and its role as conceptual kanban,” Proceedings of the 18th
Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, Haifa, Israel, July 14-16, 63-
72.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 4]
Abstract: Historically, the Last Planner™ System of Production Control has been coupled with the body
of Lean Construction literature. However, the mechanism of the Last Planner and how it fits within
accepted lean thinking has not always been apparent. This paper addresses this uncertainty. It examines
simulated results from a lean simulation game and argues that the Last Planner serves the role of a
conceptual kanban, among its functions—and therefore sits squarely within the domain of Lean theory.
Porwal, V.,* Fernández-Solís. J. L., Lavy, S. and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2010). “Last Planner System—
Implementation challenges,” Proceedings of the 18th Annual Conference of the International Group
for Lean Construction, Haifa, Israel, July 14-16, 9 pp.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 16]
Abstract: Plan unreliability is a critical problem in the construction industry. Since the industry is
fragmented and every project is unique, schedule delay is a common phenomenon. Ballard and Howell
proposed that shielding construction and stabilizing work flow is a solution to this problem. These two
researchers, along with other lean constructions scholars, developed the Last Planner System (LPS) of
Production Control through a series of experiments beginning in the early 1990’s. LPS has become a
popular tool among the lean construction community to stabilize work flow and make plans more reliable.
However, LPS users and mentors report numerous challenges with implementation and use of the system.
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This paper discusses findings from a literature survey about the challenges faced by construction
professionals during the implementation and use of LPS. The aim of this research effort was to identify the
challenges faced by construction professionals during the implementation and use of LPS at both
organizational and project levels.
Rybkowski, Z. K., Wong, J.-M.,* Ballard, G. and Tommelein, I. D. (2008). “Using controlled
experiments to calibrate computer models: the Airplane Game as a lean simulation exercise.”
Proceedings of the 16th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction,
Manchester, UK, July 16-18, 309-319.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
[Cited by 8]
Abstract: Simulation games may be used to introduce lean principles to those who are considering
implementing them. However, they can also function as controlled experiments against which to calibrate
a computer model and they can even be adapted to serve as the gold standard of scientific experimentation,
the randomized-controlled trial. Results generated from a live playing of the Airplane Game validate an
EZStrobe computer-based simulation model representing one part of the game. Close alignment of results
suggests that the computer model will likely be able to accurately predict outcomes from similarly
structured, real life activities, such as those encountered in a design office or on a construction site.
Ballard, G. and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2009). “Overcoming the hurdle of first cost: a case study in
Target Value Design.” The 2009 Construction Research Congress (Construction Institute of ASCE),
Seattle, WA, April 5-7, 1038-1047.
ASCE Conference
[Cited by 17]
Abstract: Advocates of sustainable and evidence-based design initiatives argue that building owners can
secure favorable internal rates of return when full life cycle building costs are considered. While the
argument has merit, these decision-makers express concern about overcoming the hurdle of first cost. To
reduce first cost, a number of lean construction practitioners are exploring a planning and design process
called target costing. Target costing in construction is a collaborative cost management process that relies
on business plan validation to determine what is to be delivered and what the client is willing and able to
pay for a project--before establishing the allowable cost. When warranted, a target cost may be set even
lower than the allowable cost in order to spur innovation. Once a target cost has been established, the
project is collaboratively designed to that target cost. This case study examines the target costing
techniques used during the design of a 850,000 square foot (approximately 79,000 square meters) medical
center. Qualitative and quantitative outcomes are explored, as well as implications for future projects.
Rybkowski, Z. K. and Ballard, G. (2008). “Using the ‘Five Whys’ as a decision-making framework
for evidence-based design,” Proceedings of the 16th Annual Conference of the International Group
for Lean Construction, Manchester, UK, July 16-18, 12 pp.
“A” rated conference (ARC)
Abstract: Evidence-Based Design (EBD), the judicious and conscientious use of current best evidence to
make design decisions for unique projects, is being applied to the design of healthcare facilities with
increasing frequency. Because of both the need to replace and expand aging buildings and a retiring baby
boom generation, construction of healthcare facilities is currently on the rise in the US. Advocates of EBD
argue that its rigorous application will reduce incidence of medical error and improve rates of patient
recovery. However, while some promises made by EBD can be scientifically substantiated, design of
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facilities may not be the only appropriate solution to the problems EBD advocates cite; healthcare facility
designers are pressing for EBD adoption, even when a less costly, non-capital program response might be
equally effective. This paper suggests that while the error-proofing logic of EBD makes sense, a structured
framework for the "Five Whys" should be rigorously implemented by design decision-makers, to ensure
that multiple options are considered before final solutions are adopted.
Rybkowski, Z. (2000). “Foundation of Stone: A Case for the Feynman Flip”—research article
addressing the merits of a split semester and skill-based system in architectural education.
Proceedings of the ACSA 2000 International Conference, Hong Kong, June 10-14, 10 pp.
“B” rated conference (ARC)
Peer-reviewed Conference Proceedings, in preparation
Rybkowski, Z. K., Nadiminti, N.,* Hill, R., Nichols, J. (2017 anticipated). “Development and testing
of lean a simulation to illustrate how to ‘lower the river to reveal the rocks’” (working title),
Proceedings of the 25th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, Crete,
Greece.
Rybkowski, Z. K., Sadhu, R.,* Hamilton, K., and Lavy, S. (2017 anticipated). “Framing the Lean-
IPD model in accordance with the 14 principles of “Toyota Way”: A case study on production
planning during construction of a healthcare facility” (working title), Proceedings of the 25th
Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, Crete, Greece.
Invited Articles (Non-Peer-reviewed), published
Rybkowski, Z. K. (2012). “Methods of overcoming the capital cost hurdle of Evidence-Based
Design,” Chinese Hospital Architecture & Equipment, 10, 48.
Hamilton, D. K., and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2011). "Building evidence: using objective tools in
construction project management," Heath Facilities Management Magazine, November, 29-33.
[Cited by 4]
Rybkowski, Z. K. (2009). “Letter to the Editor,” Health Environments Research & Design (HERD),
February.
Rybkowski, Z. K. and Ballard, G. (2009). “Application of Target Value Design to a Case Study
Project.” ASC-Texo Conference, Dallas, TX, October 1-2, 4 pp.
Rybkowski, Z. K. and Cheung, Moe M. S. (2007). “Hong Kong, the Pearl River Delta, and Resource
Sustainability by 2030: An Opportunity for Technological Leadership,” 6th International Conference
on Environmental Informatics, Bangkok, Thailand, November 21-23, 6 pp.
Rybkowski, Z. and Seel, J. (1997). “Hong Kong,” Architectural Record, July, 185(7), 86.
Rybkowski, Z. and Seel, J. (1996). “The Chinese are Coming! The Chinese are Coming! Will it
Make Any Difference?” Architectural Record, July, 184 (7), PR23.
Rybkowski, Z. and Seel, J. (1996). “Political Stability and Economic Reform Provide Platform for
Major Developments,” Architectural Record, July, 184 (7), PR10.
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Rybkowski, Z. (1995). “The Highs and Lows of Building in Asia,” GSD News (Harvard Graduate
School of Design), Fall.
Research Reports
Nanda, U., Pati, S., Rybkowski, Z., K., Ai, D.,* Nejati, A.,* Kalyanaraman, N.* (2014). Value
Analysis of Lean Processes in Design and Integrated Project Delivery, Academy of Architecture for
Health Foundation (funder): CADRE & Texas A&M
Ballard, G., and Rybkowski, Z. K. (2007). “The evidence-based design literature review and its
potential implications for capital budgeting of healthcare facilities,” Health Research and Education
Trust, August 9, 35 pp.
[Cited by 9]
Book, contributing co-author
Seed, W. R. ed. (2015). Transforming Design and Construction: A Framework for Change, Lean
Construction Institute, Arlington, VA. List of contributing authors by alphabetical order: Beikmann,
B., Bell, B., Bettler, R., Christian, D., Emdanat, S., Hill, C., Hill, K., Kelley, J., Lee, D., Loeb, J.,
Macomber, H., Nickerson, R., Brent, N., Reynolds, L., Rybkowski, Z. K., Seed, W., and Tsao, C.
EDAC. (2009). Integrating Evidence-Based Design: Practicing the Healthcare Design (Process
Guide 3 in the series of 3), EDAC (Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification Program),
Paris Printing, Point Richmond, CA. List of contributing author: Kent, J., Richter, L., Keller, A,
“Graphic definition of lean construction,” Austin, TX, January 27, 2012.
Healthcare Design’11 (National Conference), “Target Value Design: Making Evidence-Based
Design Financially Feasible,” Nashville, TN, November 16, 2011.
Natural-Built-Virtual 2011: College of Architecture Research Symposium, “Impact of Cost
Constraints on Aesthetic Ranking Following Target Value Design Exercises,” Texas A&M,
College Station, TX, October 24, 2011.
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Lean Construction Institute (LCI), Houston, “Push versus Pull,” Houston, TX, July 26, 2011
(with graduate students Manish Munankami and Aditi Kulkarni)
9th Annual LCI/P2SL, AIA Design Forum, “Moving toward an evidence-based practice,” St.
Charles, MO, June 15, 2012.
8th LCI Academic Forum, “Developing a consensus on the definition of lean construction: The
cocktail napkin game,” Boulder, CO, May 17, 2012.
International Group for Lean Construction (mid-year meeting), “Defining Lean Construction:
Cocktail napkin exercise,” New York, NY, February 22, 2011
Department of Construction Science, Research Road Tour 2010, “Lean construction and
optimizing the project cost,” San Antonio, TX, May 17, 2010; Austin, TX, May 18, 2010;
Dallas, TX, May 24, 2010; and Houston, TX, May 25, 2010.
Architecture for Health Visiting Lecture Series: “Target Value Design: Making Evidence-
Based Design Financially Feasible,” Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, April 21,
2010.
Evidence-Based Practice Boot Camp, Center for Health Systems and Design, “Target Value
Design: Making Evidence-Based Design Financially Feasible,” Texas A&M University,
College Station, TX, April 8, 2010.
Annual meeting of the Health Industry Advisory Council, Faculty Speaker, “Target Value
Design,” October 29, 2010.
Architecture for Health Visiting Lecture Series, Sponsored by the Center for Health Systems
Design, Texas A&M University, “Target Value Design: Making Evidence-Based Design
Financially Feasible,” May 21, 2010.
Business of Healthcare (Annual Conference at UC Berkeley, Haas School of Business), Invited
panelist for session entitled: “The Promise of User-Focused Design for Healthcare,” Berkeley,
CA, February 6, 2010.
Healthcare Design’09 (National Conference), “Target Value Design: Making Evidence-Based
Design Financially Feasible,” Orlando, FL, October 31-November 3, 2009.
Natural-Built-Virtual 2009: College of Architecture Research Symposium, “Overcoming the
hurdle of first cost: Action research in Target Costing,” Texas A&M, College Station, TX,
October 19, 2009.
Case Study Writing Workshop for the Built Environment, “Case study writing as an entrée to
research with your graduate students,” College of Architecture, Texas A&M, College Station,
TX, October 16, 2009.
International Facility Management Association (IFMA), “Target Costing and Evidence-Based
Design in Healthcare: Overcoming the Hurdle of First Cost,” San Francisco, CA, May 11,
2009.
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Healthcare Design’08 (National Conference), “Meeting the Challenge of First Cost,”
Washington DC, Nov. 10, 2008.
Healthcare Design’07 (National Conference), “Overcoming the Hurdle of First Cost,” Dallas
Texas, Nov. 5, 2007.
Project Production Systems Laboratory Annual Meeting, “Capital Budgeting Decision Tool
for Evidence-Based Design,” Berkeley, CA, Feb. 6, 2008.
P2SL-TEKES Healthcare Facilities Conference, “Developing a tool for Evidence-Based
Design Investment (EBDI) Analysis during Capital Budgeting of Healthcare Facilities,”
Berkeley, CA, Feb. 20, 2007
Project Production Systems Laboratory Annual Meeting, “Developing a tool for Evidence-
Based Design Investment (EBDI) Analysis during Capital Budgeting of Healthcare Facilities,”
Berkeley, CA, Feb. 7, 2007.
International Group for Lean Construction (midyear meeting), “Investigation of Graphics for
teaching target value design and lean construction,” New York, NY, February 21, 2011
Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Design Forum, “Toward Product and Service Differentiation
in the AEC industry,” Chicago, IL, presented at the annual meeting, June 16-17, 2005
Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, presented at the monthly technical meetings/seminar
series, “Can a structural engineer design architecture?” Hong Kong, April 13, 2004
Master of Interdisciplinary Design + Management (MIDM), University of Hong Kong, “What
is Good Design?” Hong Kong, Spring 2004
Arup, “What is Good Design?” Hong Kong, 2002-2004 (invited to give multiple presentations
at first year engineering employee retreat)
TEACHING
COURSES TAUGHT
COSC 690: Theory of Research in Construction Management 3 credits, Texas A&M University Spring 2010
Introduction to research, research tools, proposal writing and research reports; emphasis placed
on research planning and design; review of literature through qualitative and quantitative research
methodologies; emphasis on defining research problems in construction science and the
development of research proposals.
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COSC 689: Life Cycle Cost Analysis—Long-term Sustainability 3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2010, Spring 2012
Foundation in Life-Cycle Cost Analysis computation within the context of current issues in (1)
environmental sustainability, and (2) evidence-based thinking. Lean construction also discussed
as a strategy to overcome the hurdle of first cost Developer of first course on Life Cycle Cost Analysis in the Department of Construction Science at Texas
A&M
COSC 663: Sustainable Construction 3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2015, Fall 2016
Contribution of materials and methods to meeting the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their own needs; overview of international, national and
local programs promoting sustainable construction; characteristics of the components of
successful sustainable construction projects; theories and practices through case studies.
COSC 648: Graduate Capstone 3 credits, Texas A&M University Spring 2015, Spring 2016
For students preparing to enter the construction industry; project and program management of
construction projects; winning new work; construction company creation, operations and change
accommodation; leadership and management; risk management; managing people; using
technology; considering the environment; and the application of lean and target value
construction.
COSC 631: Advanced Productivity and Lean 3 credits, Texas A&M University Spring 2014, Spring 2015, Spring 2016
Introduction to lean history, concepts and methods; deduction of basic training modules in lean
project delivery; application of lean management in construction projects.
COSC 621: Advanced topics in Construction Project Scheduling
3 credits, Texas A&M University Spring 2011
Advanced techniques used in scheduling and evaluation progress in construction project control;
development of strategies for overcoming overruns; resource allocations; case studies.
COSC 603: Construction Scheduling 3 credits, Texas A&M University Spring 2013
Construction scheduling process utilizing current techniques including critical path method,
precedence method, program evaluation and review techniques, and probabilistic method;
development of parameter estimates for activities that relate to the construction of a building
project; work packages sequenced, planned and leveled to develop a working project execution
document; development of procedures to monitor actual field progress; computer application in
COSC 489: Lean Construction 3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013
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Introduction to lean history, concepts and methods, deduction of basic training modules in lean
project delivery; application of lean management to construction projects. Developer, with Jose Fernandez-Solis, of first course on Lean Construction at Texas A&M University
COSC 475: Construction Project Planning
3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2009, Spring 2010
Development of parameter cost estimates for activities that relate to the construction of a building
project; work packages sequenced, planned and leveled to develop a working project execution
document; development of procedures to monitor actual field progress.
COSC 175: Construction Graphics Communications
3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Spring 2013, Fall 2013, Spring 2014, Fall 2015, Fall 2016
Learn to visualize, interpret, and communicate graphical geometry employed in construction
design and engineering, to include the graphical analysis of problems. Includes the utilization of
sketching applications, computer aided design, and basics of building information modeling
software. An introduction of commonly employed quantitative tools in construction is covered.
COSC 153: Introduction to the Construction Industry
3 credits, Texas A&M University Fall 2010
Characteristics of the construction industry; types of construction companies; contracts; people
involved in a project, their responsibilities and interrelationships; evolution of a project;
interpreting working drawings; construction bonds; contract documents.
STUDENT THESIS COMMITTEE MENTORSHIP
PhD Students
Co-chair
James P. Smith, PhD, Architecture (with emphasis in construction science), graduated 2013
Trust building in the construction delivery process: A relational look-ahead tool for
managing trust
Committee Member
Mehdi Azizkhani, PhD, Architecture, expected graduation 2018
Biomimetic optimization of building envelopes through the framework of physical principles
(working title)
Hyoungsub Kim, PhD, Architecture, expected graduation 2017
Modeling active building with adaptable facades in parametric BIM for multi-objective