The evolution of repetitive scheduling methods led to the introduction of the learning concept in construction planning. It is common knowledge that performing the same activity repeatedly, and in the same conditions, takes less and less time as the activity is repeated (Gates and Scarpa, 1972 Gates M Scarpa A Learning and experience curves. 1972 Journal of the Construction Division, ASCE 98(CO1), March, proceedings papers 8778 pp. 79–101 ). This phenomenon is clear in many construction activities and is known as learning experience or learning effect. The increase in productivity is mainly due to the increasing knowledge acquired by work repetition. Graphic representation is through a learning curve that admits duration decreases as the activity is repeated, according to a predictable and constant learning rate. The Linear Model of logarithmic coordinates (log₁₀Y = log₁₀A – nlog₁₀X) was applied to two repetitive construction processes, frequently used in Portuguese construction. The intent was to examine its applicability and efficiency in predicting future performances, and the interest in incorporating the model in new planning methodologies for repetitive construction. In both cases, learning processes were created.

Deconstructing a building is the careful dismantling of that building so as to make possible the recovery of construction materials and components, promoting their reuse and recycling. However, deconstruction remains a rare procedure in Portugal. Using previous studies and data collected from present experiences, this paper presents a critical discussion on the importance of deconstruction for rehabilitation. Its aims are to discuss the main advantages, barriers and opportunities of this demolition technique, as well as the guidelines to the design process, aiming at assuring a successful management deconstruction process. Suggestions to impel this technique in Portugal are also described.

Project management in the construction sector is a complex and uncertain process and companies tend to look for the lowest value in the procurement of services and materials. However, contractors do not share the necessary information with the contracted parties and thus give rise to the asymmetric information (AI) phenomenon. The aim of this study is to perform an analysis of the determining factors in the adoption of relational contracting (RC) in combination with Building Information Modelling (BIM) to reduce AI. The results of a questionnaire survey, which was e-mailed to 14 specialists with solid experience (over twenty years) and knowledge in construction projects, revealed that the probability of the AI phenomenon occurring in Portugal is very high, and its impact on construction projects is equally high. The results also show that RC in combination with the BIM methodology contributes very positively to the mitigation of AI problems in construction projects in Portugal. Approximately 85% of respondents consider that the government should seek to reduce AI in the public works sector through the use of RC and its combination with the BIM methodology in the Portuguese Public Contracts Code.

Knowledge management (KM) is crucial to ensure that business enterprises effectively leverage existing knowledge within the organization and produce faster and more effective decision-making. This article analyses the importance of KM in the construction industry in Portugal and investigates the perception of experienced professionals on the implementation of KM in this industry, its benefits, and restrictions to its implementation, and how knowledge is obtained and shared. A survey was conducted among experienced professionals working in the largest construction companies in Portugal—administrators, project managers, and budget officers. The validity and reliability of the results were achieved by statistically evaluating the respondents’ answers to the variables under study. From the analysis of the results, the relevance of KM is evident, and its greatest benefits are the sharing of information and the exchange of experiences. The lessons learned from completed projects and work meetings are pointed out as the most effective and usual ways to obtain knowledge, but there is a pressing need for a change in mentality to overcome the main barrier to the implementation of KM. This study aims to help construction companies in Portugal to develop strategies to implement KM and knowledge sharing.

Tunnelling has been used for several purposes for thousands of years. In the coming years the world's population will increase in the urban areas. So, the urban centres will have to adapt, in order to guarantee that their future population will have the necessary and sustainable growth. Due to the constraints for surface construction, also connected to environmental issues, this population growth will imply a greater use of the underground. With this optimal growth, the population of the cities will have better mobility, quality of life, and economic and social sustainability. In a first phase, this report will present a historic approach to tunnelling and its foreseeable future. Afterwards, we will present some considerations on the three factors which tunnelling impacts: mobility, quality of life and social sustainability. As a case study, we will analyse the 2nd phase of the construction of the Marão Tunnel (TDM) - the longest ever built in the Iberian Peninsula- and describe the options made regarding each of those factors. In this case study, the options implemented made it possible to successfully execute the works. For the industry, this work is important because it describes a successful management of the aspects under analysis.