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Profiles

Ms Ivy Blackman Master of Construction Management Graduated: Master of Construction Management, 2008 Now: PhD Ivy Blackman’s PhD research focuses on the critical issue faced by most construction companies when they tender for work. How much will it cost? And which part of the construction is going to cost the most? Her research masters degree in construction management – completed at Deakin in 2008 – examined the height and cost of highrise residential buildings. This thesis was the springboard for a PhD scholarship which is enabling Ivy to work on a model that examines and attempts to improve the accuracy of construction cost estimation. ‘The benefit of this model is that it can be presented by the quantity surveyor to the developer, architect and the construction and consultancy firms,’ she explains. ‘For instance, at the feasibility stage, the developer can seek the cost advice to determine whether the project is buildable. This advice can also help the developers and architects select the design option that will achieve cost and time efficiency and sustainability.’ Ivy juggles her research around the responsibilities of a very young family and says her study has benefited from the support she receives from Deakin’s staff. ‘The staff are always really friendly and helpful, and the Faculties are always listening to the feedback from students.’ Winner of the Chartered Institute of Building’s ‘Excellent Building Postgraduate (Research) Award’ for 2009, Ivy has also had the opportunity to contribute to a variety of activities and events at Deakin. ‘In 2008, I presented my paper at an international building and construction conference in Shanghai … I have also had the opportunity to tutor undergraduate students and have been a Deakin ambassador in the schools’ program,’ she says. Ultimately, Ivy’s research will be applicable to a wide range of construction projects and will also include academic applications. ‘From an academic perspective, the models composed and tested in this research can be adapted as a teaching tool,’ she says. Find more information at http://www.deakin.edu.au/future-students/areas-of-study/architecture-built-environment.php

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