INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
Figure 3 : R & D Tree for Knowledge Management in Geotechnical Engineering ( abstracted from G & P 25th Anniversary Booklet and Video , 2024 )
works . Figure 3 illustrates the R & D Tree concept specifically for geotechnical engineering . The R & D Tree concept can also be adopted by other engineering disciplines . The term ‘ Tree ’ is used because the R & D process involves a cyclical pattern of identifying , developing , using , and improving R & D products , much like the growth and renewal of a real tree in nature .
The key components of the R & D Tree Concept in relation to a real tree in nature are :
● Roots ( Foundational Knowledge )
○ The foundational knowledge base includes principles , theories , and best practices .
○ Roots represent the fundamental understanding of engineering disciplines .
● Trunk ( Structured Knowledge )
○ The trunk symbolises structured knowledge repositories .
○ It includes databases , documentation , lessons learned , and project histories .
● Branches ( Specialised Categories )
○ Each branch represents a specialised category ( For geotechnical engineering , they are retaining walls , slopes , basement excavation , tunnel , deep foundation , shallow foundation , reclamation , etc ).
● Leaves ( Innovation and Research )
○ Leaves signify the on-going research , innovation , and development that will add to the R & D Tree , just like the photosynthesis and nutrients from the water that leaves use to produce food for growth .
This innovative platform of a knowledge vault developed through the R & D Tree concept serves as a centralised hub , allowing seamless access
A Tree
Roots absorb water and nutrients from soil .
Leaves use photosynthesis and nutrients from the water to produce its own food
The Tree grows properly becoming taller with stronger roots .
Bigger and stronger tree can absorb more water and nutrients to grow .
R & D Tree Concept
Based on current available and commonly practice engineering processes to carry out a project until R & D Products are available in the knowledge vault .
Lessons learned from Projects carried out will be developed into R & D Products ( e . g . new analysis and design procedures , spreadsheets , methodologies , improved specifications , checklist for planning , analysis and design , construction supervision , etc ).
Through in-house R & D , more R & D Products are produced , growing the comprehensiveness of the knowledge vault . The Consultancy Firm also grows stronger with higher engineering capacity and quality of works .
With more R & D products added to the knowledge vault , engineers can work more effectively , ensuring quality and preventing failures due to design errors .
Table 1 : Similarities of a tree with the R & D Tree Concept
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