Apps in the Construction Industry, Construction Leaders magazine, June 2019

JUNE 2019

Apps in the Construction Industry NEWS

Five Life-Changing Benefits of Connectivity

Komatsu Selected in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices

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AECOM secures AU$70 million lead designer role to deliver Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel Project

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EDITOR‘S NOTE

T

he way technology is evolving and becoming more advanced quicker than ever can be compared to magic. One of the most revolutionary devices we now have in our possessions is the smartphone because it is multifaceted and can download apps for increased efficiency and usefulness.

These apps have answers for almost any question, and they give ease for the workers of any industry, especially in the field of construction.

Since the construction industry is one rife with safety hazards and accidents, cluttered data, miscommunications, and unsustainable outputs, among others issues, and various mobile apps can help lessen the hassles of onsite and offsite construction work.

These apps can help in fostering a bidding market, uphold client-bidder privacy, track bids, secure data; manage schedules, checklists, and orders, save up on physical space by transitioning from paper to digital, communicate more clearly with your team, send one another photos and conversations, study cement-centric data and, most importantly, check up on the users’ physical and mental well-being, by reminding us to not be afraid to take a break and drink the proper amount 4

Five Miraculous Mobile Apps in the Construction Industry How to be more constructive in your construction projects. of fluids. These benefits are shared among SmartBidNet, Procore, Plan Grid, Truckast, and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration’s (OSHA) Heat Safety Tool as well.

The benefits listed above can be found on multiple downloadable apps found in the Google Play Store of the Apple App Store and are free to download, to ensure the best possible result in any construction job. Workers who download must always remember that, while apps are indubitably helpful, they must not be the be-all and end-all of everything, and that they

will only work best under the control of a real, feeling human being who can think critically.

CON TENTS

NEWS

14 5 Miraculous Mobile Apps in the Construction Industry

30 Five Life-Changing Benefits of Connectivity

34 Komatsu Selected in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices

36 AECOM secures AU$70 million lead designer role to deliver Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel Project

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F E AT U R E S T O RY

40 Why undertaking an MBA at American University of Sharjah could be the best decision you make for your engineering career

44 Oscillating Axle is a Valuable Feature on Rough Terrain

48 How to Conduct an Open House Day for Access Platforms Clients? Manlift Group Marketing Tips

52 A President and Civil Engineering Board Exam Topnotcher

58 Senior Citizen Engineer?

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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

This Might Be the Best Wall Mounted Aircon in the Philippines With the growing range of choices for split-type aircon in the market, here are a few justifiable reasons why this might be the best split type aircon yet.

B

uying an air conditioning unit can be a very confusing task.

Considering the handful of types and sizes of aircon available in the market, choosing which one is the most appropriate for your homes and establishments can be quite puzzling. Honestly, there are quite a few factors to keep in mind before purchasing an aircon, so to make the decision more of an ease and less of a hassle, here are a few reasons why TOSOT LOMO A5 Series Inverter might be the perfect wall mounted air-conditioner for you.

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What is a Split-type Aircon?

A split-type aircon is a type of central air-conditioning system.

Split-type air-conditioning units are composed of two major peripherals: a relatively large compressor or condenser typically placed outside the home and an air-handling unit placed inside. The two units are linked via a conduit which keeps the suction tubing, refrigerant tubing, condensate drain, and power cable together. The compressor is ideally placed outdoors since it can be quite noisy and hot when operating.

General Benefits of Wall Mounted (Split-type)

•More Appealing

Compared to a window-type aircon, TOSOT wall mounted aircon is more pleasant to the eyes and adds to the aesthetics of the entire room.

•Well-Insulated Split-type aircons are also well-insulated than the regular window-type AC which has poor insulation. Better insulation means greater energy efficiency.

But among the multitude of aircon types one can see in the nearby appliance store, why choose a split-type?

• Permanent Cooling

While split-type AC requires some minor construction and professional installation that can somewhat be a hassle for the homeowners and the contractors, choosing this kind of air-conditioning unit is more of an advantage rather than a burden. The Philippines is sunny and humid most of the year and requires that homes and establishments are cool and comfortable almost every day. So having permanent cooling equipment available for use is such a great convenience during these times.

• Less Intrusion

The TOSOT LOMO A5 Series Inverter aircon, built to be compact and stylish, is wall mounted and frees your windows. You don’t need to block any openings with window-type ACs so you can enjoy the warm summer sunlight filling your home. The floor area is also not covered with bulky portable air coolers.

Furthermore, it produces more subtle sounds compared to the other types, making it a better choice for a home and establishment aircon.

Features to Look Out For in the Split-type (Wall Mounted) Aircon •Earth-friendly

•Remote and Wired Furnished with an all-new refrig- Control erant called R32, TOSOT LOMO A5 Series Inverter aircon is both energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

•Precise Temperature Control

In buying the perfect aircon for your home, one thing to consider is the capability of the unit to output precise temperature control just like the TOSOT LOMO A5 aircon.

Since the unit is basically installed a few feet up on the wall, it is convenient and flexible for the user to control the aircon from anywhere within the line of sight of the unit. There is also a wired control if ever your remote is out of batteries.

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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

Features to Look Out For in the Split-type (Wall Mounted) Aircon Before buying a split-type aircon for your homes, it is best to determine the dimensions of the room where you want your aircon to be installed. Ideally, large rooms with more than 40 square meters will require a minimum output capacity of 10,000 BTU/hour, while for medium-sized rooms, about 9,000 BTU/hour is already enough.

Good thing the TOSOT LOMO A5 Series aircons’ output capacity has a wide range from 9000 BTU/hour to 17000 BTU/ hour. The TWC09VRE which has a capacity of 9000 BTU/hour is best for rooms with floor areas from 32 to 37 square meters.

The TWC12VRE, on the other hand, fits rooms up to 51 square meters. The biggest unit in the series, the TWC18VRE can cool rooms with floor areas about 90 square meters.

Another factor to consider is buying an inverter-type aircon, like the TOSOT LOMO A5 Series. In regular ACs, the compressor turns on or off depending on the room’s temperature, but in inverter types, the compressor is always on but consumes varying amounts of power depending on the temperature. This is certain10

ly less energy-consuming since the compressor does not always operate at its maximum capacity.

This also lengthens its life span as the load is lesser compared to the regular ones. The inverter-type may be a bit more expensive, but the investment is sure worth it in the long run. Inverter ACs reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, cutting back on your monthly electricity bills.

To find out the best wall mounted air conditioner for your home,

office or party event venue, visit TOSOT showroom located at 2162 FB Harrison St., San Jose, Pasay City, Philippines or call +632-8330000 to book an appointment. You may also visit their website (click here) to get more information about the best split type aircon in the Philippines.

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

AUS’ Fulbright Scholar conducts research in Tianjin, China Sharjah, UAE. May 13, 2019—Associate Professor of Architecture at American University of Sharjah (AUS) Marcus Farr is currently pursuing research in China as a Fulbright Scholar. One of the world’s most prestigious and competitive fellowship programs, the Fulbright Schol12

ar Program has provided funding for qualified recipients to study, conduct research, teach or exercise their talents abroad. Fulbright recipients have included scores of Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize winners.

As part of the program, Farr

is undertaking research and teaching at Tianjin University Graduate School of Architecture. Farr is studying ancient Chinese architectural and building traditions, examining how these historical methods could help today’s architects find solutions to China’s unprecedented urban

growth, and creation of what have been termed “mega cities.” Farr’s work is of much relevance in both China and globally, as new approaches to construction and urban planning are necessary for allowing large populations to live comfortably within geographically limited spaces.

As environmental considerations become an increasing concern for governments around the world, Farr’s research into historical techniques could help to foster more environmentally sustainable practices in the present day.

He is currently examining the buildings of foreign concessions in Tianjin dating from the 1600s, exploring how the architecture of these buildings could hold clues for modern buildings in the city, and further afield.

Founded in 1946 by US Senator J. William Fulbright, the Fulbright Program is part of the United States government’s public diplomacy agenda, helping to improve intercultural relations, cultural diplomacy and intercultural competence between the people of the United States and other countries through the exchange of persons, knowledge and skills. Since his arrival in China, Farr has therefore been joining his Fulbright counterparts in gaining an in-depth understanding of Chinese

history and culture, travelling to the southwestern city of Dali to see relics of China’s history first-hand. The group of scholars has also spent time with the United States Ambassador to China, the United States Consul General to China, and other high-ranking diplomats, gaining an appreciation of their role as Fulbright scholars in representing the United States government.

population growth.”

AUS is chronicling Farr’s Fulbright journey through regular posts on the AUS Blog.

The latest installment in this series can be read here: www. aus.edu/fulbright-research.

Under the program, Farr has also begun teaching a group of graduate architecture students at Tianjin University.

He says of the importance of this cross-cultural experience: “Successful architects need to understand their practice from a global perspective and consider how international influences can potentially benefit the form and function of their work. The Fulbright Program allows me to learn from the Chinese experience of urbanization and the solutions created as a result.

It also allows my students to gain new perspectives from my background as an architect and academic in the United States, the Middle East and other parts of Asia. This cultural exchange is valuable in the professional development of architects, and is also hugely important in the creation of architectural solutions that meet current challenges, such as climate change and rapid 13

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How to be more constructive in your construction projects

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COVER STORY

M

agic is pulling out a little device from your pockets and using it to control each and every aspect of your life, like a flat, rectangular wand. It may have been far-fetched at the time, but this mystical tool is very much real today in the form of the smartphone.

And it’s only getting smarter each year.

Not only is a smartphone multifunctional (it can be a camera, a calendar, a notepad, a TV, or whatever you want it to be), it further lessens the hassles of life with downloadable apps. These apps are a source of entertainment, can help the user solve a myriad of problems and complications that may arise at any given time, and can be used in any industry.

One such industry in need of immediate digitization is the construction industry, an industry rife with safety hazards and accidents, cluttered data, miscommunications, and unsustainable outputs, among others issues. This industry, like all others, is ever-evolving and requires a great deal of patience and unwavering concentration. Lacking in either could result in lost files at best and lost lives at worst. It seems simple enough, but a single app in a pocketable phone could impact your projects in an immeasurable way—again, like magic in the palm of your hands.

Here then are five mobile apps you can download to make your construction project smoother and more efficient!

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1. SmartBidNet, for better bidding processes If there’s a spell for efficiency, it’s this app. Structure is important for general contractor offices, most especially when submitting tenders and managing a construction project. SmartBidNet, an app that consists of state-of-the-art bid management systems, allows you to create bid processes with subcontractors the best way possible, and then some. SmartBidNet also promises bid-tracking, data-security and protection, and access to the online construction network for more bids.

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2. Procore, a more sustainable alternative to documentation As a central information hub, Procore provides users with a more systematic way of communicating with co-workers on and offsite, save and share data and project photos, record building operations in real time, and manage schedules, checklists, and orders. Using Procore can save hours and space, reduce physical clutter and increase focus on work, and is an overall better option for the environment.

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3. PlanGrid, for consolidated communication with your team Communication will always be important in whatever career, although communication in some fields may be more difficult compared to others. With PlanGrid, you can upload your latest drawings to a core server so that, in real time, your team members can act accordingly. Communication is made easier, giving way to reduced errors on and offsite, historical records of your revised sketches, and the quick resolution of any inquiries.

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Truckast is a concrete way of creating trust and transparency with all manner of construction workers and professionals in the industry.

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4. Truckast, for concrete data transference and equipment tracking Cementing itself as “the only mobile cloud platform for professional concrete contractors and producers�, Truckast prides itself in its real-time data transference from on to offsite.

A great mix of data, such as pour performance, order location tracking, and time saved during project delays, among others, are shared amongst the team. Truly, Truckast is a concrete way of creating trust and transparency with all manner of construction workers and professionals in the industry.

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WE CREATE THE INNOVATORS, LEADERS & THINKERS OF TOMORROW

For over 20 years, American University of Sharjah (AUS) has been at the helm of the region’s intellectual, cultural and scientific development.

As we enter our third decade, we are renewing our commitment to providing outstanding undergraduate and graduate education, and embarking on a new era of pioneering research.

27 bachelor’s programs | 14 master’s programs | 4 research institutes | 3 research centers Executive Education | PhD in Engineering Systems Management

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www.aus.edu/cen AUS has been ranked in the world's top 50 universities under 50 years of age.

AUS has the highest percentage of international students of any ranked university in the world.

5. OSHA Heat SafetyTool, because safety is the top priority Whether they’re off or onsite, construction workers and professionals in the industry are all but superhuman, despite the amount of work and effort they put in a project. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration’s Heat Safety Tool is a motherly, caring tool that reminds us to prioritize our physical and mental well-beings by giving you pop-up reminders to eat and drink enough fluids, schedule well-deserved rests, adjust work operations, and detect signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Just remember to thank the app for its hard work in keeping us healthily on our feet.

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Summary These are just a handful of helpful mobile apps you can download to lighten the load. There are countless others you can download depending on the task at hand, and a simple visit to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store grants you access to a plethora of stress-alleviating apps for all construction-based needs.

Needless to say, like humanity, technology continues to develop at breakneck speeds, affecting for the better the fields and industries in which we choose to work. But while these apps are powerful and using them is, without a doubt, the efficient and preferable mode of working, they mustn’t be the be-all and end-all to your career. No matter how innovative and advanced a piece of technology is, or how useful a mobile app is, they cannot and will never function well enough without the guiding forethought and proper handling of a human being.

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NEWS

FIVE LIFE-CHANGING BENEFITS OF CONNECTIVITY The internet has been connecting the globe for only a quarter of a century, but already it is influencing so many aspects of our daily lives – from the way we shop to the way we keep ourselves entertained.

More than two thirds of the global population – that’s almost 5 billion people – now use mobile phones. We have never been so connected, but just how is this technology impacting lives on a more global scale? Here we look at just some of the social benefits of connectivity.

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1. CREATING NEW JOBS The internet has been connecting the globe for only a quarter of a century, but already it is influencing so many aspects of our daily lives – from the way we shop to the way we keep ourselves entertained.

More than two thirds of the global population – that’s almost 5 billion people – now use mobile phones. We have never been so connected, but just how is this technology impacting lives on a more global scale? Here we look at just some of the social benefits of connectivity.

2. OVERCOMING POVERTY Of the 7.6 billion global population, it is estimated that 4.2 billion are internet users. Since its birth in 1989, the world wide web has revolutionized the world of commerce but one of the internet’s biggest impacts is actually within developing countries. In low income countries, agriculture represents approximately 40% of economic activity. Mobile and internet networks allow farms in these areas to gain access to valuable information such as market pricing, weather, disease control, as well as livestock tracking. A 2014 study showed that Indian fishermen who adopted these technologies increased their profits by 8% and lowered consumer prices by 4%, proving that the information that connectivity yields benefits the whole of society.

3. REVOLUTIONIZING THIRDWORLD HEALTHCARE A 2007 study by the Canadian organization, Doctors of the World, highlighted the vast differences in healthcare around the globe. In the USA and Sweden, for example, there is usually one doctor available to every three patients. But in India there is one doctor for every 1,700 patients and astonishingly in Tanzania that number rises to 50,000.

Low doctor-to-patient ratios are not the only issue in low income countries. Inaccessibility to healthcare information is another major issue, but connectivity is reforming healthcare. The exponential growth of smartphone adoption in India has meant that it has never been easier for patients and doctors to communicate. Smartphones also allow health education messages to reach communities that would otherwise be cut off from such information. A recent success story is a Ghanaian health project where weekly automated texts are sent to pregnant women. These messages contain information promoting healthy fetal development and debunking pregnancyrelated myths.

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4. BOOSTING AID RELIEF AFTER NATURAL DISASTERS Communication is always important, but during a disaster it becomes paramount. One of the main concerns of aid relief now is how refugees might charge their phones. When Haiti was hit by a devastating earthquake, all mobile networks went down. When connection is lost it’s hard for relief workers to identify where aid is most needed. But technology has been developed that allows mobile users to communicate directly with each other even where there is no network coverage – via a system known as ‘mesh networking’– a system where by a series of mobile phones connect by an app to form their own local ‘network’, allowing them to communicate without the need for mobile service. Another innovative solution developed for disaster relief is the Trilogy Emergency Relief Application (Tera): a mass text messaging programme which has now been rolled out by the Red Cross in 40 countries around the world. It allows aid workers to identify all the mobiles being used in any given area and send emergency updates in the form of a 140 character message all at the click of a button.

5. MAKING CONSTRUCTION MORE PRODUCTIVE Infrastructure plays an important role in economic growth, social development, job creation and poverty alleviation. However, the construction industry has a productivity challenge. Typically, 20% of large projects run over time and up to 80% run over budget.

However, the digital future is already offering innovative solutions to this multi-billion-dollar problem. Data collected by sensors on machines can help monitor when equipment needs repairing, provide instant inventory numbers and locations, enhance safety, and boost operator productivity. A McKinsey & Company report showed that the digitization of an American tunnel project – involving more than 600 vendors – saved 20 hours of staff time per week, reduced report generation time by 75%, and increased document transmittal speed by 90%. The study also highlighted a $5 billion rail project that saved $110 million by using automated workflows for reviews and approvals. Project management software allows progress to be tracked and reported, as well as giving users access to experts and best practices.

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NEWS

Komatsu Selected in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices Komatsu (President and CEO : Tetsuji Ohashi) was selected as a component of the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) again this year. We are very pleased to receive the recognition by this world’s leading corporate social responsibility index developed jointly by S&P Dow Jones Indices of the United States and RobecoSAM, an investment specialist focused exclusively on Sustainability Investing in Switzerland.

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　For DJSI World selection, companies are analyzed and evaluated along a diverse range of items in the three areas of economic performance, environmental conservation efforts and social activities. In 2018, they surveyed a total of approximately 2,500 major-scale companies around the world, from which they selected 317 companies, including 34 Japanese companies.

　We believe that our corporate value is the total sum of trust given to us by society and all stakeholders. To continue our sustainable growth, we are firmly determined to continue our efforts to remain as a company trusted by society while improving our business performance and our sound and transparent management.

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NEWS

AECOM secures AU$70 million lead designer role to deliver Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel Project AECOM, a premier, fully integrated global infrastructure firm, will provide the full range of design services as part of the Rail Infrastructure Alliance which today signed a contract with the Victorian Government worth approximately AU$1 billion. The project is expected to be worth approximately AU$70 million to AECOM and will support the delivery of the AU$11 billion Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project.

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The Rail Infrastructure Alliance consists of CPB Contractors and John Holland, with AECOM as the design partner, as well as project owner Rail Projects Victoria and rail franchisee Metro Trains Melbourne. AECOM’s affiliates will design all elements of the project, including tunnel entrances, brownfield rail network enhancements and station improvements. AECOM’s affiliates will also be responsible

for obtaining the various planning and environmental approvals relating to the upgrade of the rail network and helping to minimise the projects impacts.

“This is a highly complex and challenging design brief, which will connect the new 9 km Metro tunnels to the existing live rail corridors bringing the trains above ground and allowing them to seamlessly continue their journey along the network,” said

Regional Office: LG Electronics Gulf FZE, P.O Box 61445, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 279 9222, UAE, Mr. Amjad Abu Alika, Tel: +971 50 450 9808, email: amjad.abualika@lge.com; Fortune International Trading LLC, Mr. Wail Halbouni, Tel: +971 50 481 3570, email: fortintl@emirates.net.ae; Ghantoot Trading, Mr. Nour Haboush, Tel: +971 50 109 4109, email: nour.h@ghantootgroup.ae; District Cooling Company, Mr. Ahmed Henedi, Tel: +971 50 658 4832, email: ahmed@districtcoolingcompany.com; Al Yousuf Electronics, Mr. Moitra, Tel: +971 50 457 6170, email: pmoitra@alyousuf.com; Bahrain, AJM Kooheji and Sons, Mr. Jayachandran, Tel: +973 36888801, email: v.jayachandran@ajmkooheji.com: Al Babtain Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Co., Mr. Naji Kataya, Tel: +965 5 051 5771, email: nkataya@albabtaingroup.com,kw; BLK, Mr. Imad Rhayel, Tel: +965 5 157 1229, email: irhayel@blk.com.kw; Oman, Oman Gulf Enterprise, Mr. Narender Kumar, Tel: +968 9 747 4505, email: narenderk@otegroup.com; Aspire Projects and Service, Mr. Vivek Wagh, Tel: +968 99357694, email: vivekwagh@aspireoman.com; Azerbaijan, NBC LLC., Mr. Elkhan Sadikhov, Tel: +994 50 216 3363, email: elkhan.sadikhov@nbc.com; Al-Con Maxiwell Group, Mr. Vagif Alexperov, Tel: + 994 50 216 2092, email: maxiwellbaku@inbox.ru; Armenia/Georgia, ARAY Gulf, Mr. Vilson Melikjanyan, Tel: +374 9 307 7755, email: vilson@aray.am; Yemen, Modern House Exhibition, Mr. Khaled Jabr, Tel: +967 71 172 0202, email: mail@mhe-yemen.com; Pakistan, Iceberg Industries (Lucky Goldstar), Mr. Imran Jamil Khan, Tel: +923 21 277 6100, email: ceo@icebergindustries.net

NEWS

Todd Battley, AECOM’s chief executive of Australia and New Zealand.

The Rail Infrastructure Alliance has started preparatory works, including geotechnical, service and site investigations, at Kensington, South Yarra and West Footscray, to inform planning and design of the western and eastern tunnel portals that will connect with new stations at Arden Street, Parkville, CBD North, CBD South and Domain.

“We have already begun to mobilise combined local and global teams to bring the best of 38

AECOM’s tunnel portal design, geotechnical and urban heavy rail capability to this transformational project. Once complete it will keep a growing Melbourne moving and leave a lasting legacy of rail design expertise, which Victoria can export to the world.

It is expected that over 1,000 people will work on the Rail Infrastructure Alliance package of works, including almost 100 apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets.

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

Why undertaking an MBA at American University of Sharjah could be the best decision you make for your engineering career

Are you an engineer with aspirations to secure a management position, or start your own business? Have you considered how a Master of Business Administration (MBA) might help you realize these goals?

An undergraduate engineering degree provides essential technical knowledge for entry-level engineering positions, and for the first few years in an engineer’s career. However, as engineers ascend in their orga40

nization, their time is often less focused on technical problems, and more toward solving business challenges. As engineers are promoted, they often encounter the challenge of managing people and teams, and are required to oversee budgets and timelines.

For many engineers, undertaking an MBA allows them to navigate these challenges with confidence, and prove to their peers and leaders that they have not only excellent technical skills, but also

the capacity to strategically evaluate business problems and lead change. The MBA offered by the School of Business Administration (SBA) at American University of Sharjah (AUS) has long been a popular choice for ambitious engineers in the region, helping them to scale the heights of their profession, and, in some cases, successfully launch their own businesses and achieve financial success.

The AUS MBA is one of the region’s most highly regarded.

SBA has been ranked by U.S. News as being the region’s number one business school. It is also one of the region’s few

business schools to have achieved accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).

Of the 15,000 business schools worldwide, only 760 have been accredited by AACSB, demonstrating the standard of learning provided at SBA. Such accolades give engineers undertaking an MBA through AUS confidence that their degree will be recognized and respected throughout their future careers, whether in the Middle East or further afield.

The structure and flexibility of AUS’ MBA allows engineers to 41

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

undertake the program while also successfully meeting the demands of their employers.

The program has been designed to permit professionals who are busy with their career and family obligations to balance their commitments. The program’s courses are taught during weekday evenings, and students can take as little as 15 months or as long as five years to complete the MBA. A wide selection of course electives also allows MBA students to tailor the program to their career or industry needs.

For many of AUS’ MBA students, 42

it is the experience and real-world understanding of SBA’s faculty that makes their experience so valuable. They represent 34 countries of origin, and have earned PhDs in their respective business disciplines from AACSB-accredited, predominantly North American, universities. Their understanding of the regional and global business environment offers SBA students precious insight, and prepares them well for the challenges and opportunities that await them as they advance through their careers.

In addition, the learning and sharing of ideas and experiences among the MBA student body is invaluable. Our students come from a wide range of academic and ethnic backgrounds, as well as industry experiences, providing valuable insights and connections within the AUS MBA student and alumni network.

Kevin Rose Dias, who completed a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at AUS and who is now undertaking his MBA at AUS, says:

“During my time as a candidate for the Master in Business Administration (MBA) at the American University of Sharjah, I have been involved in extensive academic and research work contributing to the program and my profession. My professional journey as a data analyst in business intelligence and marketing analytics is complemented by my MBA studies and academic research paths I have undertaken. The leadership, decision-making and innovation attitude fostered through the MBA program has also enabled me to contribute

back to the community, reflected by my being a guest speaker at various university/public events and my various published research work. The MBA studies have definitely complemented my engineering undergraduate degree, building on my design-thinking mentality and giving me considerably more scope for accelerated growth in my chosen career path.�

To learn more about the AUS MBA, visit: www.aus.edu/sba.

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MIDDLE EAST NEWS

Oscillating Axle is a Valuable Feature on Rough Terrain Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) often integrated into scissor lifts and boom lifts

When using an oscillating axle system, the two sides of the axle can pivot in response to flooring surface on which they operate so that all wheels remain on the ground when the equipment is on the move, but lock into place when the boom is elevated, to ensure stability. This means greater safety when operating the boom, and a smoother ride

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and greater operator control (and confidence) when moving the equipment. The system also reduces the risk that the AWP will get stuck, because the wheels are always in contact with the ground so they can always be used to propel the equipment over the terrain.

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

Not all AWPs are fitted with the feature, as it requires a more complex mechanical system with more hydraulics and more electronics. Nonetheless over the years, oscillating axles have been offered as a standard feature on more and more AWPs produced by most of the leading manufacturers.

Normally, if the platform is in the air, the oscillating axle feature is disabled. The reason is that the stability is reduced. Indeed, if ever there is any sort of equipment malfunction, one of the checks that we at Manlift run is to ensure that the oscillating axle system does automatically lock during operation and is only functional when the platform is in transport position.

However, an interesting variation is the active oscillating axle offer

by Genie. This system has the additional benefit of being able to drive the AWP even when the boom is elevated and while the axle is oscillating. This brings with it improved maneuverability over slightly uneven ground even when the access platform is elevated.

The various usages and benefits of oscillating axle were discussed during IPAF trainings to give operators a full understanding of how this important feature works and how to use it to best advantage.

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A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

How to Conduct an Open House Day for Access Platforms Clients? Manlift Group Marketing Tips The key focus of Manlift’s open house day is the demonstration of the Manlift Way Having an open house day will allow us to build a foundation of trust with new and existing customers who are working in any industry that utilizes aerial work platforms. This delivery of the best customer experience is an important part of our mission and vision at Manlift as well as give our customers the chance to learn about our new value solutions that help them achieve the highest level of safety and efficiency.

The key focus of Manlift’s open house day is the demonstration of the Manlift Way. As the heartbeat of our company, the Manlift Way aims to showcase the latest improvements and advancements in our processes and services 48

while giving added values to our (potential) customers.

Additionally, such an event is a great reason for everyone to have look around, chat with our key account managers, or other stakeholders and experience the culture of Manlift.

360 degree Task Force Team Preparation is the key!

As with any event, organizing an open house day requires COOPERATION. It works only if everyone is willingly giving time and effort to the project and bringing their differing skills to the table.

Being systematic and having a proper agenda and action reg-

ister will help to not only gain an overview on all the steps that need to be taken, but also to not forget any important aspects: Defining next the project owner who drives and leads the project, coordinates with different team members and supports the team when needed is crucial.

Defining next the project owner who drives and leads the project, coordinates with different team members and supports the team when needed is crucial.

At Manlift, “The Manlift Way champion” makes sure to grant the best yard layout, promoting great visual experience, and an excellent flow to facilitate a “walk

A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S through� the depot rental cycle, incl. the explanation of our depot bays. In fact, for each depot cell, we allocate a team member to share key criterias of the respective bay station.

Prior to the event, the workshop manager, yard controller and safety representative conduct the 6S internally and externally.

They prepare the visual signages, re-paint mark cell boundaries if necessary and carry out a depot risk assessment. We also suggest barricading off the area of the tour.

On a final note, the safety measures also need to be checked and made available such as PPE, high visibility vest and workshop layout displays.

From the communication point of view, the marketing team is responsible for sending out the invitations and promoting the Manlift Open House Day. This will be conducted through landing pages,press releases, and across all social media channels with a special attraction to come to the event with something that’s new and beneficial for customers.

Furthermore, the marketing team is responsible for creating a professional ambiance with proper, consistent branding in the yard. Manlift’s value propositions will be displayed through banners or pop ups and marketing materials such as leaflets and brochures. We will also create a nice give away for our customers, to make an impact on how we are perceived by them in return.

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The Commercial Team will be responsible for the tour guides, carrying out personal tours, and sending personal invites to customers across all industries.

Our Stores Controller ensures proper parts Kanban (signboard in Japanese).

and time at the beginning of your team meeting.

Training Department conducts a live IPAF training during the Open House Day.

At least two weeks prior to the event, set a deadline for registration once the date of the Open House Day is confirmed and announced accordingly.

Rental Desk Team / Hire Desk Team prepares KPI visual display, KPI explanation, hire process, sales app, etc.

In any case, the best way to learn is to visit us and experience Manlift for yourself!

At least one representative from all departments should be involved.

Make sure to agree on a proper budget to avoid facing any financial burdens in the end.

Also, make sure to define the day

A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S Filipinos recognize Fidel V. Ramos, or FVR, as the 12th President of the Philippine Republic who served from 1992 to 1998. The non-Roman Catholic leader was confronted with key national issues like the communist insurgencies and the Islamic separatist movement in Mindanao, but managed to forward the rapid economic growth early in his term. This fell apart later when a financial crisis hit Asia in 1997.

A President and Civil Engineering Board Exam Topnotcher FVR may not be a lawyer like many of the Philippine Presidents, but he is a licensed civil engineer who was a topnotcher.

Before he became the country’s commander-in-chief prior to Corazon Aquino, he was head of the Philippine Constabulary during Ferdinand Marcos’ regime. He was a key implementer of the martial law, but later defected from the government during the 1986 People Power Revolution. FVR led civilian demonstrations putting Marcos into exile.

That is what is mostly written in history books about him.

But there is also one thing that people should know about FVR which makes him unique among the Philippine presidents: FVR may not be a lawyer, but he is a licensed civil engineer who was a topnotcher.

Prior to this achievement, FVR joined the Philippine Military Academy as a cadet but didn’t finish as the 18-year-old won a government scholarship to the United States Military Academy in West Point. This was after he passed a series of qualifying examinations which he aced.

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A year after graduating in 1950, he grabbed the opportunity to take an engineering course in the US and applied for a government scholarship. He was accepted.

FVR received a one-and-a-halfyear grant for his Masters of Civil Engineering degree in one of the leading science and technology universities in the US, the University of Illinois.

FVR came back home with his master’s degree and reported to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). He was assigned

to the southern military area in Canlubang, Calamba, Laguna where the Hukbalahap movement was active. It wasn’t long that the Korean War intervened and his battalion combat team was sent to the war zone in Korea in 1952.

His tour of duty was successful, so he came to the country only to be assigned to a star position in General Headquarters, AFP. Realizing that he wants to be board-certified about his being a

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A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

civil engineer, FVR reviewed for the board examination. At the time, he was working at Camp Aguinaldo (then Camp Murphy) and had to find all the means to rush to school.

felt the need to help in rebuilding the structures of his beloved country.

He revealed in a Business Mirror interview that his decision to become an engineer came a little late at 17 years old.

“I saw the massive damage when we came back to Manila after liberation sometime in February 1945,” FVR recalls. “And when I was crossing the Pasig River on a pontoon bridge, put up by the American liberation forces because the old Nagtahan Bridge had been blown up, I decided right then and there to become an engineer, in order to help in the reconstruction of the Philippines.”

That was after World War II, where many of the Philippines’ buildings were destroyed including the Post Office Building, the Manila Metropolitan Theater, and the Manila City Hall. FVR saw the wreckage and

After he topped the board exam and just as he felt the need to settle down and get married, FVR met a former schoolmate named Amelita Martinez. They got married after six months of courtship.

The 25-year-old FVR took the 1953 Civil Engineering Board Examination at the National University in Sampaloc, Manila, only to place 8th overall.

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In the early days of their marriage, FVR decided to enroll at the University of the Philippines College of Law to follow the footsteps of his father, former Ambassador Narciso Ramos, who was a successful lawyer and diplomat. However, this became difficult for the couple that his wife had made him choose.

“But it turned out that going to UP Law in the Ermita district was too much of my newly married status, and so my wife gave me an ultimatum: It’s either me or that law degree that you want so badly,” he says. “So I said, ‘of course I want you,’ and I gave up the law degree.”

Note that six of the Philippine Presidents were bar topnotchers.

FVR is one of the non-lawyers,

A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

and the only one to receive a distinction of being a board topnotcher.

FVR went on to take two more master’s degree: one in National Security Administration at the National Defense College of the Philippines in 1969, and the other is in Business Administration at the Ateneo de Manila University in 1980. He holds five degrees as doctor of laws honoris causa. To add to that is the books he wrote counting close to 30 while in retirement.

Politics didn’t end for FVR after his term as President, as he was still involved in several 56

influential political organizations.

A little less than two years before the 2010 national elections, he urged voters to elect an engineer for President, if there were any. He hinted during a keynote speech in a Cebu conference that an engineer can better lead the Philippines compared to an economist. He said this without naming names.

“Let’s just say that we need someone who can visualize the whole picture, start and actualize,” FVR shares, referring to the skills inherent to an engineer.

F E AT U R E S T O RY

Senior Citizen Engineer? Nobody is Ever Too Old Age is just a number in Engineering!

I browse engineers’ forums regularly. In Quora and in Reddit, I always come across posts about users, sometimes in late 20s and more often in mid-30s, asking for public opinion whether or not they should pursue an engineering course at that age. And the answers, which come from the younger ones to people of their batch, unanimously express one thing: age is just a number.

It must be taboo for them that once you are no longer in the ideal age to be a college student, you are less likely to succeed or not at all. Last time I checked, there is no standard age to enroll in engineering. Hence, nobody is ever too old to become an engineer, or to become any professional for that matter.

From the forums, I have gathered that many brave – and old – souls have made the jump; however, they are not too many to be common. A lot of them come from different industries, regardless if related to engineering, but realized that they want to become an engineer later in life.

Which is completely all right.

I agree with the answers because age is just a number indeed – it is immaterial to reach one’s dreams.

‘Age doesn’t matter’ is usually 58

applied in other contexts but it fits so well in this situation.

One cannot rule out though that there may be to varying circumstances that affect the decision of the elderly to be involved in engineering. But I can say that they can only be ruled out as excuses – unless they are planning to take engineering half-heartedly – once they know the story of Colonel Sanders who went through an awful lot in life before he became an icon of Finger Lickin’ Good.

Long before he was known to be the founder of the famous fastfood chain KFC, Colonel Sanders had worked different odd jobs like a farmer, streetcar conductor, soldier, railroad fireman, lawyer, insurance salesman, steamboat operator, secretary, and lighting manufacturer, among others. This was after he quit school in seventh grade realizing that he would rather work all day than go to school. In the first half of his life, he also had a stint in Cuba with the Army.

Until in 1930, he acquired a ser-

F E AT U R E S T O RY

vice station in Corbin, Kentucky and served Southern dishes to travelers. Over time, his little restaurant became famous which forced him to get rid of the service station’s gas pump.

It took him 9 years to discover the signature “11 herbs and spices” that KFC is well-known for, a recipe that was developed in a pressure cooker now considered obsolete. It had the ideal consistency that Sanders had been looking for.

Undoubtedly, his chicken gained 60

wide popularity. Later, he was conferred by the governor of Kentucky in 1950 with a title of colonel, the highest honor the state can give. From then on, Colonel Sanders dressed in white suit and Kentucky colonel tie which is now used as the KFC icon.

But a new interstate had bypassed Sanders’ restaurant, forcing him to sell the location in 1956. He was left with a $105 Social Security check for income, but the 65-yearold did not leave the business and went door to door

with his chicken.

Together with his wife and a car, Colonel Sanders entered restaurants, offered to cook his chicken, and made a deal with the owners in case they liked the recipe. By 1963, he already had 600 restaurants across the US and Canada selling the signature Kentucky Fried Chicken.

In October of the same year, Colonel Sanders met lawyer John Y. Brown Jr. and venture capitalist Jack C. Massey who wanted to buy the franchise rights. In 1965 and at 73 years

F E AT U R E S T O RY

old, he finally agreed to sell the rights for $2 million (valued at $15.1 million in 2015), but under certain conditions: KFC keeps the chicken recipe, and Colonel Sanders gets a lifetime salary of $40,000 (which became $75,000 later) and remains as the brand ambassador, among others.

In October of the same year, Colonel Sanders met lawyer John Y. Brown Jr. and venture capitalist Jack C. Massey who wanted to buy the franchise rights. In 1965 and at 73 years old, he finally agreed to sell the rights for $2 million (valued at $15.1 million in 2015), but under certain conditions: KFC keeps the chicken recipe, and Colonel Sanders gets a lifetime salary of 62

$40,000 (which became $75,000 later) and remains as the brand ambassador, among others.

Colonel Sanders may not be an engineer, but there are valuable lessons to learn about his journey that should be picked up by those who think that it’s too late to achieve success in life.

Nobody is ever too old to become an engineer. It doesn’t matter if you are 36 or 43, one only needs hardwork, patience and determination to succeed in life because again, age is just a number.

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