Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.1515/otmcj-2016-0017
Achieving competitive advantage through the integration of disabled architects in architectural design firms in Egypt
Ayman Ahmed Ezzat Othman
orcid.org/0000-0001-9842-3885
; Architectural Engineering Department, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
Marise Hossam Hosny Sorial
; Hossam Hosny Sorial Architectural Engineering Department, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
Sažetak
The 2030 strategy of sustainable development in Egypt is based on integrated goals, including Human Resource Development. Egypt has ~9,540 disabled architects, who can play an important role in achieving competitive advantage through their integration in Architectural Design Firms (ADFs). By neglecting the benefits of integrating disabled architects, ADFs encounter the risk of losing unique skills and competent personnel. This article investigates the integration of disabled architects in ADFs as an approach for achieving competitive advantage. To achieve this aim, a research methodology consisting of literature review, case studies, and survey questionnaire has been adopted, and it is designed to achieve five objectives. First, literature review is used to investigate the concepts of disabilities and competitive advantage, as well as the relation between integrating disabled architects and the achievement of competitiveness in ADFs. Second, six case studies are presented and analyzed to investigate the role and process of achieving competitive advantage in ADFs through employing disabled architects. Third, the results of a survey questionnaire are analyzed to examine the perception regarding and application of employing disabled architects as an approach for achieving competitive advantage in ADFs in Egypt. Fourth, a framework is developed to facilitate the integration of disabled architects in ADFs with the goal of achieving competitive advantage. Finally, the research findings are summarized and recommendations are put forth. The value of this research stems from the need to address the issue of lack of employment of disabled architects in ADFs and the benefits of making better use of their unique capabilities and skills toward achieving competitiveness. In addition, this research covers a controversial topic that receives scant attention in construction literature, especially in Egypt.
Ključne riječi
architectural design firms; competitive advantage; disabled architects; diversity; employment; Egypt
Hrčak ID:
185568
URI
Datum izdavanja:
30.1.2017.
Posjeta: 1.189 *