A competitive environment, which can even be hypercompetitive at times, requires an organisation to continually transform itself to ensure that it remains relevant and competitive. The challenge in effectively transforming an organisation lies in ensuring that its direction and strategy reflect changes in its internal and external environments. With this challenge in mind, the most common question is how and where the transformation programmes should begin? This book provides advice at a strategic level and demonstrates how the transformation program impacts on all areas of human resources. It gives sound advice on how to execute that strategy by discussing techniques to design and implement an effective change programme. Most importantly, it is written from a practical perspective that will appeal to both management practitioners and students. Utilising a scenario based approach, readers will gain useful insights on how to avoid common issues and develop a holistic understanding of the art of transforming organisations.

This book is written in two parts, namely General Issues in Construction Industry and Various Aspects of Research in Construction Industry. It consists of a collection of ten articles related to studies on managing construction in developing countries. The articles were written by several authors who are specialised in the built environment such as construction planning, management and managing quality. All articles attempt to focus on the issues, current developments and analysis that can benefit those who are involved in the built environment. They offer a fresh insight into how the management aspect of construction can and should be enriched, enhanced and ultimately empowered to act as a vital tool in delivering construction projects within their intended objectives. This book aims to act as a gateway for students, academicians and practitioners of the industry to learn about innovative measures and steps currently being undertaken in the developing world with regards to construction management. As an accompanying text to other definitive references in this field, this book aspires to add onto the current body of knowledge with the ultimate aim of inspiring more contemporary and effective management methods to be adopted, adapted and injected within this industry. Keywords: Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penerbit Universiti Sains Malayia, Penerbit USM

In view of the current global scenario, which highlighted the importance of sustainable development and sustaining natural resources, the theme selected for the 2nd Regional ECOMOD 2007 Conference was indeed appropriate. This conference has generated overwhelming interest and I am sure the participants have focussed diligently on the serious issues concerning important environmental issues and steps needed to be taken towards a sustainable development and management of our natural resources and environment. As governments in the Asian region introduce new initiatives and development policies to rejuvenate and protect their environment and natural resources, it is imperative that universities and research institutions play a fundamental role in ensuring that the objectives of these policies are realized. Such institutions can complement government proposals by embarking on research that is relevant and valuable to the needs of respective nations and pursuing extensive research so that the outcome and technology generated can be transferred effectively to the end users. This concerted effort by all the researchers from different fields to improve and manage our natural resources should be lauded. I strongly believe that this conference is an extraordinary testimony to our capacity building at regional and local levels. I believe USM has something interesting to share with all of you in this area. Finally, on behalf of the Organizing Committee, I hope readers will find this book of proceedings useful, informative and stimulating.

As one of the major contributors to the environmental problems that lead to global warming, the construction industry must mend its ways. It now must be geared towards achieving sustainability. Sustainability consists of three main pillars, namely the environmental, economic and social pillars. There is a need for a sustainability assessment framework that integrates environmental, economic and social factors within the Malaysian construction industry. Its major thrust is an attempt to balance the use of resources between the present and future generations. This book discusses all relevant materials regarding the achievement of sustainability in the construction industry. The book should be a basis for future works or research in some of the areas discussed and should provide a specific reading for students at postgraduate and undergraduate levels. Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia

The Role of the University with a Focus on University-Community Engagement The role of the university is constantly debated. With higher education a key driver in socioeconomic development, community engagement has increasingly become a fundamental role of the university. This publication provides insight into the essence of balanced university-community engagement. Readers will be privy to sustainable models as well as local and international case studies. As the chapters reveal best practices and guidelines derived from substantive projects, this book is recommended to all higher education leaders, policymakers, implementers and anyone seeking a solid understanding of university-community engagement and what such engagement entails.