J. Ross Publishing

Building systems integration for enhanced environmental performance.

Authors Vassigh and Chandler (architecture, Florida International U.) note in their introduction that the built environment, notably the construction and operations of buildings, is the most significant of all human activities contributing to climate change. Their book explores a recent trend in architecture that integrates both design and engineering to develop sustainable buildings. That more inclusive approach, they say, cuts out "substantial inefficiencies" from the design and building process. The book also includes extremely detailed and vivid drawings that well illustrate the concepts discussed in the text. (Annotation ©2011 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)

Mastering project portfolio management; a systems approach to achieving strategic objectives.

For those in organizations, as well as upper-level undergraduates and graduate students, Bible, a project management professional who specializes in the management of complex technical projects, and Bivins, who specializes in project and portfolio management, organization initiatives, and business strategy integration, outline the use of project portfolio management to eliminate unnecessary discussion, improve the quality of portfolio decisions, and increase the chances of achieving an organization's strategic goals and objectives. Emphasizing a holistic view that combines people, processes, tools, and techniques, they go over the entire process from strategic planning through portfolio evaluation and adjustment, including prioritizing objectives, identifying and evaluating candidate projects, selecting optimal portfolios, measuring performance, and governance. They also show how members of an organization not using formal PPM can implement these processes. They use decision support software (Expert Choice, with temporary access for readers) and techniques with step-by-step illustrations. (Annotation ©2011 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)