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Item Open Access A scientometric analysis of quantity surveying research: trends and future direction(University of Johannesburg, 2023-12-27) Aghimien, Douglas; Adegbembo, TaiwoThe development of people, organisations and professions is driven by several factors including research. As such, evaluating research trends within a given field of study is necessary to understand current issues and identify gaps to make meaningful contributions to the body of knowledge. The scientometric analysis offers the opportunity to understand these research trends while identifying leading contributors (authors, countries, institutions), impactful contributions and areas of focus in existing studies. Using the scientometric analysis, this paper presents a visualisation of quantity surveying (QS) research published from 2003 to 2023 and indexed in the Scopus database. Using an interpretivist philosophical stance, the study found that QS studies have emanated from diverse countries, including the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Nigeria, South Africa and Australia. Journal outlets are the major sources of disseminating QS research findings, while the lack of proper indexing of many QS conference proceedings is responsible for fewer conference publications. Past QS studies have focused on six major areas, which are (1) QS professional service and management, (2) QS and BIM in design and cost estimating, (3) QS competencies, (4) QS education and training, (5) QS in the construction industry, (6) QS and project planning. These identified areas create room for future studies to research less explored areas such as human resource management, higher education, information theory, QS and climate change adaptation, green/circular/bio-economy, digitalisation, and innovative construction.Item Open Access A Scientometric Review of Present and Future Trends of Embedded Systems in the Built Environment(Springer, 2023-11-08) Ikuabe, M.; Aigbavboa, C.; Oke, A.; Aghimien, DouglasThis study presents a scientometric review conducted to define and delineate utilization of embedded systems in construction project delivery. This was done with the view of providing directions for future studies as well as stimulating a wider debate among construction stakeholders on the use of embedded systems in the industry. The study adopted an interpretivist philosophical view using an inductive approach and a grounded theory strategy. The data used were secondary in nature and were gathered from the Scopus database using specific related keywords. Co-occurrence maps were further created based on the bibliographic data gathered using the VOSviewer text mining software. Three clusters of co-occurring keywords were formed from the analysis, and these are labelled as sensor network systems and models, real-time systems and designs, and construction process automation. The study opens a new vista in the deliberations of the studies on technological innovations in the built environment.Item Embargo An Employability Skills Model for Built Environment Graduates: A Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Analysis(Taylor and Francis, 2024-03-30) Aliu, John; Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Oke, Ayodeji; Ebekozien, AndrewThis study presents a six-construct employability skills model for built environment graduates in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The model examines the influence of generic skills, discipline-specific skills, work-integrated learning, emotional intelligence, university-industry collaboration and 4IR knowledge on graduate employability. A mixed-method approach was employed, including the Delphi technique for qualitative analysis and a wellstructured questionnaire for quantitative analysis. The findings highlight the significant impact of work-integrated learning on improved employability, while also revealing the direct influence of other exogenous variables. Notably, discipline-specific skills showed a weaker influence. This research contributes to the field by presenting a tailored employability skills model for built environment graduates, addressing the sector’s unique challenges in the 4IR era. The study also offers practical implications for stakeholders involved in employability skills development. Overall, this study provides a substantive contribution to the research area of engineering education and graduate employability in the context of 4IR. In an ever-evolving job market shaped by technological advancements, this study underscores the importance of equipping built environment graduates with a diverse set of skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the 4IR.Item Open Access Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing country.(Emerald, 2022-12-19) Eze, E. C.; Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, C. O.; Sofolahan, O.Purpose – This paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country’s perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis. Findings – The study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement-related factors. Practical implications – The findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation. Originality/value – While there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particularly at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste-generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.Item Open Access A Delphi Exploration of Construction Digitalisation in South Africa(Construction in the 21st Century (CITC), 2023-05-11) Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Oke, Ayodeji; Oladinrin, Olugbenga; Taki, A. H.The current technological advancement has rapidly transformed how industries worldwide deliver their products, and the construction industry is not immune to this transformation. However, while the industry in developed countries is gradually picking up with the use of digital technologies in attaining digital transformation, the construction industry in developing countries like South Africa is still lagging in its adoption. Therefore, to promote construction digitalisation within the South African construction industry, this study, through a Delphi approach, unearths the major risks construction organisations will face in their quest for digital transformation. The study also explored the potential of the country’s construction industry to be fully digitalised and the demerits of the industry not being digitally transformed. Using appropriate statistical tools, the study found that while the South African construction industry has a high potential to be digitalised, this digital transformation can take a long time to be achieved. Data insecurity and information overload are among the critical risks that organisations seeking digital transformation might have to face. However, should these organisations fail to implement digital strategies in the delivery of their projects, they risk having a lack of competitiveness in the global market and an increase in poor project delivery.Item Open Access Developing emotionally competent engineers for the ever-changing built environment(Emerald, 2022-12-27) Aliu, John; Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, C. O.; Ebekozien, A.; Oke, Ayodeji; Adekunle, S. A.; Akinradewo, O.; Akinshipe, O.As the world experiences a rapid rise in technological advances, the engineering profession will be required to become even more socially responsible and emotionally stable to be able to display higher levels of empathy towards the society they serve. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the key emotional competencies (ECs) that engineers need to possess to thrive in the construction industry after graduation. A quantitative research approach was conducted with close-ended questionnaires developed and administered to built environment professionals such as architects, construction managers, construction project managers, engineers and quantity surveyors. The results showed that the ability to display a positive outlook on life, understand one’s emotional triggers, ability to display resilience in hard times, control one’s emotions and ability to show compassion to others were the highest-ranked ECs. Further analysis revealed four clusters such as self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation and self-motivation. Practical guidance for higher education institutions is offered in terms of revamping and revisiting their engineering education curricula to develop these ECs to produce emotionally sound engineers for the ever-changing world of work. As the world of work becomes increasingly dynamic and diverse, engineers will be required to possess empathy, social skills and high levels of ECs to be able to seamlessly interact with fellow professionals as well as the society they serve.Item Open Access Empirical Investigation of Discipline-Specific Skills Required for the Employability of Built Environment Graduates(Taylor and Francis, 2022-12-22) Aliu, John; Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Oke, Ayodeji; Ebekozien, Andrew; Osunsanmi, TemidayoAs the world continues to experience significant and dynamic changes, the concept of graduate employability remains a well-discussed subject in the body of knowledge. Consequently, the concept has attracted the interest of educators, policymakers, researchers and graduates themselves. As a vital cog in the employability conversation, the quality of present-day graduates is highly dependent on the effectiveness of training received from higher education institutions This formal training provides learners with discipline-specific skills (academic skills) and knowledge which helps them obtain a firm foundation in their chosen discipline or profession. This study seeks to unearth the various discipline-specific skills (DSS) that built-environment graduates need to possess to thrive in the labor market after graduation. A quantitative research approach was adopted to achieve this study’s objective with close-ended questionnaires developed and administered to built environment professionals based in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Retrieved data were analyzed using several statistical tools such as percentage, frequency, Mean Item Score, One-Sample T-test and Exploratory Factor Analysis. Findings revealed four clusters highlighting the key DSS required by built environment graduates. These include lifelong learning, hands-on experience, digital literacy and knowledge of the subject area. The outcomes of this study will be beneficial to several stakeholders involved in construction education and employability skills discussion.Item Open Access Empirical scrutiny of the human resource management features for effective maintenance management of educational buildings(Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, 2023-07-24) Ngcobo, Ntebo; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Aghimien, DouglasThis paper presents the findings of an empirical assessment of human resources management features required to effectively maintain higher education institution (HEI) buildings in South Africa. This was done to improve the maintenance management of HEI buildings in the country for better performance of buildings. The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical perspective using a quantitative research approach with questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. The questionnaire survey was distributed to the users of academic buildings and heads of maintenance departments in six HEIs in Gauteng, South Africa. Data collected were analysed using mean item score, Kruskal-Wallis H-test, and confirmatory factor analysis. The study found that the availability of skilled and experienced personnel, adequate staffing of the maintenance department, effective occupational health and safety practices of maintenance staff, and top management support for training are key to the effective maintenance of HEIs buildings. This study offers a theoretical contribution to the existing discourse on the maintenance of educational buildings by exploring the human resources management dimension. This aspect has gained little attention in recent times.Item Open Access Exploring blue-green roof for a sustainable built environment in South Africa(Emerald, 2024-04-30) Aghimien, Douglas; Aliu, John; Aigbavboa, ClintonPurpose – The current adverse changes in climatic conditions have necessitated innovative nature-based solutions like blue-green roofs to ensure sustainable built environments. The use of blue-green roofs in combating climate change issues has continued to grow, and its benefits are showcased in many countries’ studies. However, there is an absence of reports on the use of this approach in South Africa. Therefore, in ensuring a sustainable built environment through nature-based solutions, this study explored the built environment professional’s knowledge of blue-green roofs, the hindrances to their use and motivations for much wider use of blue-green roofs in the country. Design/methodology/approach – Based on the nature of the study, a quantitative design was adopted and data were obtained from professionals within the built environment through a questionnaire. Data analyses were conducted using the Cronbach alpha test, Kruskal–Wallis H-Test, exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation. Findings – The findings revealed a growing knowledge of blue-green roofs, albeit its slow adoption in the country. Also, five critical clusters of hindrances affecting the use of blue-green roofs were identified. These are understanding the blue-green roof concepts, technical, economic, regulation and client hindrances. Furthermore, the ability to manage stormwater properly, provide climate change adaptation and deliver sustainable buildings were the key motivating factors that could drive the use of this innovative solution. Practical implications – This study offers actionable insights for built environment professionals and stakeholders to address the hindrances to using blue-green roofs in South Africa. Strategies such as improved education, financial incentives and policy development can help overcome some notable hindrances and promote the widespread adoption of blue-green roofs. Originality/value – The slow adoption of blue-green roofs and the scant nature of research within the built environment required adequate attention to which this current research contributes. Theoretically, being one of the foremost studies in South Africa to explore blue-green roofs, the findings offer a foundation for future studies seeking to explore this roofing system in the country further.Item Open Access Exploring constraints in integrating indoor environmental quality (IEQ) into building designs: a case of Nigerian quantity surveying firms(Emerald, 2024-02-06) Oke, Ayodeji; Aliu, John; Agbaje, Doyin Helen; Ebekozien, Andrew; Aghimien, Douglas; Leo-Olagbaye, Feyisetan; Aigbavboa, C.Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate the primary constraints that quantity surveying firms in Nigeria encounter while integrating indoor environmental quality (IEQ) principles into building designs. Design/methodology/approach – The study used a quantitative approach by administering a well-structured questionnaire to 114 quantity surveyors. The collected data were analyzed using methods such as frequencies, percentages, mean item scores, Kruskal–Wallis test and exploratory factor analysis. Findings – The top five ranked constraints were limited access to funding or financing options, limited availability of green materials, limited availability of insurance for sustainable buildings, limited availability of sustainable design resources and limited diversity and inclusivity within the design profession. Based on the factor analysis, the study identified six clusters of constraints: structural-related constraints, technical related constraints, financial-related constraints, capacity-related constraints, legal-related constraints and culture-related constraints. Practical implications – This study has several practical implications for quantity surveying firms, policymakers and industry stakeholders involved in building design and construction in Nigeria. The findings of this study can also inform future research on the integration of IEQ principles into building designs. Originality/value – By identifying and structuring the clusters of constraints faced by quantity surveying firms in Nigeria when implementing IEQ principles, this study provides a novel approach to understanding the challenges associated with IEQ implementation in the building sector. This understanding can guide policymakers, industry stakeholders and quantity surveying firms in developing effective strategies to overcome these constraints and promote IEQ principles in building design and construction.Item Open Access Green Retrofitting of Existing Buildings in South Africa(Construction in the 21st Century (CITC), 2023-05-11) Aghimien, Lerato; Aghimien, Douglas; Oladinrin, Olugbenga; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Mokwena, LeratoExisting buildings account for a large consumption of energy and greenhouse gas emissions. However, studies have noted that the conversion of existing buildings into green buildings has great potential to conserve energy and reduce these greenhouse gas emissions. Based on this knowledge, this study assessed the green retrofitting features employed in existing buildings and the drivers of the use of these features in South Africa. The study was conducted among participants with expertise in green construction through a questionnaire survey. The data gathered were analysed using a mean score, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square, and exploratory factor analysis. The study found that the use of movement sensors to control electricity usage is a common feature in the country. Furthermore, the use of green retrofitting is driven by five major group of factors, vis; (1) economic growth, (2) occupants' expectations and satisfaction, (3) environmental sustainability, (4) return on investment, and (5) government support. The findings also offer a theoretical contribution to the existing green construction discourse from the perspective of existing buildings in South Africa.Item Open Access Intelligent Wearable Technologies for Workforce Safety in Built Environment Projects in South Africa(MDPI, 2024-04-22) Aghimien, Lerato; Ngcobo, Ntebo; Aghimien, DouglasIn a quest for the safe and sustainable delivery of built environment projects in South Africa, this study explored intelligent wearable technologies (IWTs). A post-positivism philosophical stance was adopted by surveying 165 built environment experts. The technology–organisation–environment (T–O–E) framework was also employed in understanding the critical factors influencing the use of IWTs in the study area. Data analyses used mean scores, the Kruskal–Wallis H-test, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modelling (SEM) with appropriate model fit indices. It was found that, albeit at a slow pace, IWTs such as smart safety vests embedded with indoor GPS/sensors, smartwatches, and smart safety helmets are gradually gaining popularity within the South African built environment. SEM revealed that while all the assessed T–O–E factors are important to the increased use of IWTs within the study area, the environment- and technology-related factors will significantly impact how individuals and organisations use these beneficial wearable technologies. This study contributes to the existing discourse on intelligent technologies for the safety of the built environment workforce from the South African perspective, where such studies have received less attention.Item Open Access Making a case for nature-based solutions for a sustainable built environment in Africa(Wiley, 2024-02-18) Aghimien, Douglas; Aliu, John; Chan, Daniel W. M.; Aigbavboa, C.; Awuzie, B.The potential of using nature-based solutions to address issues of climate change has continued to gain momentum, especially in developed nations. However, the same cannot be said for developing countries, particularly in Africa, where the knowledge and awareness of natural solutions are low, and research on their application within the built environment is scant. Using a sciento-metric and narrative review of published literature, this paper makes a case for research exploration on nature-based solutions for a sustainable built environment in Africa. The findings revealed an opportunity for significant research contributions on nature-based solutions in addressing flood risk management, climate change and urban planning, water quality and carbon emission, sustainable development, and green infrastructure and urban development. These areas are the critical focus of past studies explored. Also, the findings offer guidance for further studies to be conducted in less explored areas, such as carbon sequestration, greenhouse gases, energy utilisation, indoor comfort, and numeric models for using nature-based solutions within the African context. The findings of the study offer an excellent theoretical background to direct researchers and practitioners who seek to attain and promote sustainable built environments through nature-based solutions, especially in Africa.Item Open Access PLS-SEM assessment of the impact of job satisfaction on the organisational commitment of women quantity surveyors(Taylor and Francis, 2024-01-30) Aghimien, Douglas; Aliu, John; Akinradewo, Opeoluwa; Aghimien, Lerato; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Ditsele, KakanyoThis study investigates the impact of job satisfaction on the organizational commitment of women quantity surveyors (WQS) in the South African construction industry. This investigation was done to promote female participation within the construction industry by establishing significant job satisfaction factors that organizations can improve upon. A post-positivism philosophical approach, using a questionnaire survey, was employed to obtain quantitative data from registered WQS. The data obtained were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean item scores, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, and partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Using the organization commitment scale developed in past studies, it was found that WQS in the study area exhibited more continuance commitment. Also, their job satisfaction level is below average. PLS-SEM revealed that the continuance commitment exhibited is negatively influenced by the job satisfaction variables. The findings of this study provide valuable benefits to employers of construction organizations as the creation and enhancement of supportive work practises, structures, and cultures can help to attract and retain female quantity surveyors in the construction sector.Item Open Access Risk Management Practices in Malaysia(Springer, 2023-07-27) Oke, Ayodeji; Adetoro, P. E.; Stephen, S.; Aigbavboa, C.; Oyewobi, L.; Aghimien, DouglasThis volume describes risk management practices in the construction industry in selected countries, with an emphasis on developing countries and how these countries can learn from the practices in more developed ones. Risk management in the construction industry can be difficult to understand due to the various complex procedures that are involved and to the unique concerns and contexts associated with each project. The industry has been a key contributor to the economic and social development of many countries of the world and is increasingly incorporating sustainability into its practices. However, it is plagued by various risks that can affect the quality, cost, time and overall sustainability of projects. Therefore, there is a need to effectively manage risk in order to ensure timely completion of construction projects in good quality and within budget, which in turn results in more efficient and often more sustainable practices. The book is divided into four parts. The first section features a primer on risk management practices as they pertain to the construction industry. The second part dives to describe risk management in selected developing countries, including Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi-Arabia, South Africa, Sri-Lanka and Tanzania, as well as the city of Hong Kong. The third section describes the construction risk management practices of a selection of more developed countries with known risk management institutes and established practices of risk management. These countries include Australia, Canada, Sweden and the United States of America. The fourth part offers a general overview of the definition, concepts and process of risk management based on reviewed literature. It also discusses the benefits of effective risk management to clients and project teams, especially from the perspective of ensuring sustainability. This last section also summarizes the risk management practices in both developing and developed countries for the purpose of improving the practices in the former by learning from the latter.Item Open Access Too far apart! - an evaluation of the challenges impeding virtual teams' success(Inderscience, 2023-04-01) Aghimien, Douglas; Aghimien, Lerato; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Dhladhla, SiphiweIn today's business world, technological advancement, globalisation and the recent global pandemic have contributed to the increased use of virtual teams (VTs). However, the use of VTs in the construction industry in South Africa and the challenges facing this type of team are yet to be explored. Therefore, this study assessed the challenges facing VTs in the South African construction industry using a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. The data were analysed using percentage, mean item score, Kruskal-Wallis H-test, and Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation. The study found five groups of challenges impeding the success of VTs. Based on the findings, the study concludes that top management and owners of construction organisations seeking to improve their project success through VTs must put measures in place to address issues relating to (1) trust and cohesion, (2) diversity, (3) leadership (4) communications and (5) task specifications. Practically, should the identified challenges be considered, construction organisations would be able to use their VTs to deliver construction projects effectively. Theoretically, the study contributes to the existing discourse on VTs by showing these challenges from the South African construction industry perspective, where such a study does not exist.Item Open Access Towards built environment Decarbonisation: A review of the role of Artificial intelligence in improving energy and Materials’ circularity performance(Elsevier, 2024-06-28) Awuzie, Bankole Osita; Alfred Ngowi; Aghimien, DouglasMitigating climate change challenges in the built environment through the decarbonisation of energy and construction materials remains a pressing challenge. The circular economy (CE) has been identified as a critical pathway to achieving this objective. CE promotes the efficient use of resources, extending their lifecycle and minimising their environmental impact using a plethora of methods. The link between CE and decarbonisation becomes evident when the intertwined relationship between materials, energy, and the environment is considered. By reducing waste and ensuring the continuous use of materials and energy resources, CE significantly lowers carbon emissions. This approach is inherently aligned with the overarching goals of the decarbonisation agenda. The emergence of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) has continued to transform how the built environment activities are conducted and improved. However, the utility of AI models in engendering the actualisation of the decarbonisation agenda through improved circular economy performance within the built environment context remains under-researched. This study addresses this knowledge-practice gap, using a scientometric and scoping analysis of relevant peer-reviewed and grey literature. Findings from the scientometric analysis revealed AI has been explored separately in circular economy and decarbonisation. Yet, studies exploring AI in relation to the circularity performance of the built environment for improved decarbonisation remain scant. The narrative review from the scoping analysis further revealed the usefulness of AI in driving optimal decarbonisation and levels through improved circularity performance of materials and energy across various economic sectors, including the built environment for optimal decision making which in turn, encourages responsible producer and consumer behaviour for improved CE performance.Item Open Access Unearthing the outcomes of construction digitalisation – a South African perspective(Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, 2023-07-24) Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Oke, Ayodeji; Taki, A. H.For most construction organisations in developing countries like South Africa, embracing digitalisation is constrained by the absence of evidence pointing to the outcome features of using digital technologies. This study, therefore, set out to unearth the potential outcomes of construction digitalisation by drawing from the perspective of construction professionals in diverse construction-related organisations across South Africa. The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical stance using quantitative research conducted through a questionnaire survey. Data were analysed using mean item score, Kruskal-Wallis H-Test and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). With good internal consistency, construct validity, and acceptable fit indices, CFA confirmed that an organisation's ability to deliver projects within the agreed schedule, quality and cost is improved with digitalisation, with better digital uptake and transformation achieved in the process. This implies that for a construction industry like South Africa, characterised by poor project performance due to the slow adoption of technological advancement, embracing construction digitalisation is a must in this current era of the fourth industrial revolution.Item Open Access Unravelling the Role of Digital Partnering in Successful Construction Digitalisation – An Empirical Investigation(Sciendo, 2025-01-10) Zapata Montalvo, Luis Fernando; Aghimien, Douglas; Aigbavboa, C.; Oke, A.This study explores the concept of digital partnering among construction organisations, focusing on the essential factors that contribute to successful partnerships and their impact on achieving digital transformation. To gather quantitative data, a survey was conducted with construction professionals engaged in projects throughout South Africa. The data analysis employed a comprehensive six-step methodology, including mean item scoring, Kruskal- Wallis H-Test, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and multiple linear regression (MLR). The findings from the EFA indicated that the effectiveness of digital partnering hinges on three critical elements: a supportive partnering environment, trust and mutual understanding, and management support. The MLR analysis further validated these factors as crucial for attaining digitally transformed construction organisations. Given the competitive and often adversarial nature of the construction industry in developing countries like South Africa, the study recommends that organisations pursue collaborative partnerships both within and outside the industry to facilitate digital transformation. This can be achieved by fostering an environment that nurtures trust, understanding, and strong management support for developing digital capabilities through collaboration. The study offers empirical insights into the key factors necessary for successful digital partnering, an area that has been largely overlooked in discussions surrounding construction digitalisation.Item Embargo Visual Pollution and Its Impact on the Built Environment: Resilient City(Springer, 2024-11-28) Zapata Montalvo, Luis Fernando; Aghimien, DouglasPublic space can be understood as where public life develops and where inhabitants can freely express themselves and exercise their citizenship rights. The public space is a visual synthesis comprising elements located in buildings and spaces, both public and private. However, the advertising industry has found ways to privatize the exploitation of the public space. Although there are regulations that make possible the organization of the urban image and regulate the commercialization of these spaces, in some cases, the number of advertising elements (billboards) in the built environment prevents people from appreciating less and less the natural environment, which permanently competes with advertisements for commercial products, political propaganda or services. In the field of the right to the city, it is pertinent to discuss the right to an obstacle-free landscape. Therefore, this paper seeks to understand how outdoor advertising interferes with the inhabitant's visual experience of urban space and how this influences their perception of the city and its image. It presents a reflection on how outdoor advertising affects the degradation of public space.