Dynamic planning and control methodology for large-scale concurrent construction projects

Abstract

Concurrent construction has been widely used for modem construction projects, as a method to shorten time-to-market. Concurrent construction, however, requires a careful and systematic approach to its planning and management, since it also has greater potential to impact the construction process than the traditional more serial method. These industrial trends and challenges in concurrent construction, together with increased understanding of dynamics and complexities of construction, have increased the demand for a more efficient planning and control method. In this context, the simulation-based scheduling method that has the potential to more effectively deal with the dynamic state of construction processes has currently emerged as an alternative to the network-based method. However, despite its potential advantages over the network-based method, very few of the existing simulation tools have overcome their practical limitations and have proven their applicability to real construction processes. As an effort to address some of these challenging issues, this thesis presents Dynamic Planning and Control Methodology (DPM) that has been developed to help prepare a more robust construction plan against uncertainties and to provide policy guidelines for the planning and control of a construction project, taking into consideration the context in which the project is being developed. The use of DPM would be especially beneficial for construction projects performed concurrently and involving higher complexity and uncertainties, ensuring that those projects can be delivered in time without driving up costs.