Showing papers on "Construction management published in 1990"
01 Jan 1990
TL;DR: The Construction Industry Institute (CII) as discussed by the authors was founded in 1983 as an outgrowth of the Business Roundtable's Construction Industry Cost Effectiveness (CICE) project and is dedicated to improving the cost effectiveness and competitiveness of the U.S. construction industry.
Abstract: The Construction Industry Institute (CII), located in Austin, Texas, was founded in 1983 as an outgrowth of the Business Roundtable's Construction Industry Cost Effectiveness (CICE) project. It is dedicated to improving the cost effectiveness and competitiveness of the U.S. construction industry. This article discusses the CII's objectives, some of the topics addressed by CII task forces, and the publications of the CII.
215 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a philosophical argument for new construction labor productivity models based on actual factors affecting productivity is presented, and various work-study models that have been proposed have been reviewed.
Abstract: This paper presents a philosophical argument for new construction labor productivity models based on actual factors affecting productivity. The paper reviews various workstudy models that have been...
199 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a new approach called the repetitive project model (RPM) that models repetitive construction projects, which incorporates a network technique, a graphical technique, and an analytical technique in a unified approach to model repetitive projects.
Abstract: Repetitive projects are those characterized by repetitive construction activities. Examples are highway, pipeline, high‐rise building construction, etc. Many researchers recognized the disadvantages of using traditional network techniques for planning, scheduling, and monitoring such projects. Alternate approaches based on graphical or on analytical techniques have been proposed to model repetitive projects. This paper presents a new approach called the repetitive project model (RPM) that models repetitive construction projects. This model incorporates a network technique, a graphical technique, and an analytical technique in a unified approach to model repetitive projects. Comparisons between RPM and current available models are made and a numerical example is given to illustrate the use of the model.
174 citations
TL;DR: The line-of-balance technique is one of these linear scheduling methods using known scheduling methods such as the critical path method (CPM), program evaluation and review technique (PERT), and bar chart.
Abstract: Highway construction, housing projects, long bridges, and many other types of construction projects are characterized by repetitive operations. Linear scheduling techniques are known to be the most suitable methods for the overall management of such types of construction projects. The line-of-balance technique is one of these linear scheduling methods using known scheduling methods such as the critical path method (CPM), program evaluation and review technique (PERT), and bar chart, and it does not replace them. A preliminary survey of literature reveals that the method has not been formalized enough to be presented by a body of well-tested algorithms. As a consequence, its use in construction project management has been very limited and no attempts have been made for its computerization. This paper formalizes the line-of-balance method and develops its algorithms. The end result is a method suitable for the management of complex construction projects with repetitive activities. As such, it provides scheduling, resource management, project analysis, and project control.
95 citations
TL;DR: Techniques applicable to the simulation of repetitive construction operations are described and a practical example application is presented to demonstrate how they can be applied.
Abstract: Before full adaptation of simulation techniques for the analysis and design of construction operations can be implemented, the appropriate statistical tools must be understood and applied as part of the simulation experiment. Most simulation models in construction can be treated as stochastic models. The proper analysis of such models requires: (1) Application of input modeling techniques; (2) appropriate analysis of output parameters of concern based on multiple runs; and (3) validation and verification of the results. This paper describes techniques applicable to the simulation of repetitive construction operations and presents a practical example application to demonstrate how they can be applied. Procedures for selecting input models, methods for solving for the parameters of selected distributions, and goodness‐of‐fit testing for construction data are reviewed. The discussions on output analysis were limited to simulation output that is normal because it is frequently encountered in construction simu...
82 citations
Book•
01 Jan 1990
TL;DR: Bresnen as mentioned in this paper analyzes how the contractual mechanism binding the various parties engaged in construction projects imposes a rigid pattern of interaction on what is quite a fragmented industry and argues that the more the nature of an individual project requires a flexible or "organic" approach to its organization, the less likely it is to receive one.
Abstract: Much has been written on complex project organizations and especially matrix systems of management yet, these have tended to focus on one-off highly specialized projects. Such observations led Michael Bresnen to look for a less specific example, which might practically test these theories and would also provide material for a full comparative examination. The obvious choice was the construction industry. Construction creates distinctive organizational problems. External working relationships have an impact upon the decision-making of units invovled with individual building projects and can inhibit effective organization. Indeed in the worst cases, the book argues, the more the nature of an individual project requires a flexible or "organic" approach to its organization, the less likely it is to receive one. The book analyzes how the contractual mechanism binding the various parties engaged in construction projects imposes a rigid pattern of interaction on what is quite a fragmented industry.
65 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors compare manufacturing and construction processes by developing an integrated process model that identifies specific activities in construction and relates the model to an existing integrated manufacturing model, and identify areas for cross fertilization through computer integration techniques that have been effectively applied to solving productivity problems in manufacturing.
Abstract: This paper compares the process similarities between the manufacturing and construction industries and identifies areas for cross fertilization through computer‐integration techniques that have been effectively applied to solving productivity problems in manufacturing. The importance of computer integration is illustrated by the strides that manufacturing has made in their integrated approach to providing a product. A comparison of the manufacturing and construction industries describes basic functional similarities, indicates similar problems facing both industries, and defines similar solutions being applied with their respective degrees of success. The role of modeling in integrating processes is defined before integration in construction and manufacturing are reviewed. The paper compares manufacturing and construction processes by developing an integrated process model that identifies specific activities in construction and relates the model to an existing integrated manufacturing model. Finally, base...
63 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of uncertainty on the outcomes of planning is evaluated by measuring the schedule and man-hour variances of the project, as well as the extent of usage of plans.
Abstract: Research on uncertainty in construction has emphasized the importance of incorporating uncertainty factors in project‐cost and time forecasts. However, little attention has been paid to identification and quantification of the specific risks. The present paper focuses on an assessment of the effect of uncertainty on the outcomes of planning. The effect of eight situational variables is evaluated by measuring the schedule and man‐hour variances of the project, as well as the extent of usage of plans. The variables examined are number of subcontractors, number of trades, objectives rigidity, percentage completion of design, past construction experience, predictability of weather, availability of labor, and attitudes toward planning. The findings show which of the various situations affect any one planning measure, as well the extent of such influence. The paper concludes with an analysis of the financial implications of the prevailing practice of overlapping design and construction.
60 citations
TL;DR: This effort is to present the characteristics of the state-of-the-art expert systems to researchers and expert-system-developing institutions to help them in making a choice of the most appropriate tools and trigger communication between developers working in similar domains.
Abstract: Because of their characteristic attributes of combining factual knowledge with judgment, being able to handle incomplete and uncertain data, and communicating with their users in the natural langua...
59 citations
TL;DR: This paper presents the experience modeling a multistory office building project for construction planning, implementing SIPE to plan this project, and describing SIPe’s performance in planning the construction of large-scaleMultistory buildings.
Abstract: Knowledge representation and reasoning techniques derived from artificial intelligence (AI) research permit computers to generate plans, not merely analyze plans produced by human. They explicitly represent knowledge about how to generate plans in the form of initial and goal states, descriptions of actions along with their preconditions and effects, and a control structure for selecting new actions to insert into a project plan. From the more than two dozen AI planners developed and published since the 1960s, we have chosen the system for interactive planning and execution (SIPE) to investigate the utility of AI planners for construction project planning. This paper presents our experience modeling a multistory office building project for construction planning, implementing SIPE to plan this project, and describing SIPE’s performance in planning the construction of large-scale multistory buildings. With the use of a frame hierarchy, generic operators, and constraint-based approach, SIPE can generate logically correct activity networks for multistory building construction from a description of the components of a facility. To model such construction projects in a concise and uniform framework, we show the usefulness of some underlying principles for establishing ordering relationships among the project components involved in construction activities.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a framework for the rationalization of the analysis of construction performance that will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the performance analysis, including the adequacy of actual performance, presence of organizationally imposed constraints, worker possession of required knowledge, skills, and ability, and whether the estimate is realistic.
Abstract: The construction process involves the interaction of equipment, manpower, and material. Each construction project begins with performance goals for cost, schedule, safety, etc. When actual performance differs from exected performance, the cause of the deviation must be determined. The analysis of construction performance has typically been performed in a shotgun fashion. The paper presents a framework for the rationalization of the analysis of construction performance that will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the analysis. The framework provides a decision tree that will guide construction engineers as they analyze performance. Five major issues are addressed in the framework: adequacy of actual performance; presence of organizationally imposed constraints; worker possession of required knowledge, skills, and ability; worker possession of necessary motivation; and whether the estimate is realistic. Use of the framework requires answering a series of questions. Data are suggested to allow the q...
Book•
01 Jun 1990
TL;DR: The 1990 Specialty Conference on Design and Performance of Earth Retaining Structures as mentioned in this paper was held in Ithaca, New York from June 18-21, 1990, with a total of 50 papers addressing, the general topics of historical perspectives, wall selection, contracting practices, waterfront structures, gravity walls, mechanically stabilized systems, cast-in-place walls, soil nailing, tied-back excavations and seismic design.
Abstract: The proceedings of the 1990 Specialty Conference on Design and Performance of Earth Retaining Structures was held in Ithaca, New York from June 18-21, 1990. It presents a total of 50 papers addressing, the general topics of historical perspectives, wall selection, contracting practices, waterfront structures, gravity walls, mechanically stabilized systems, cast-in-place walls, soil nailing, tied-back excavations and seismic design. The papers survey the current state of the practice of earth retention and support, detail the rapid and profound changes that design and construction practices have undergone in the last 20 years, and forecast technological developments which are likely to carry the practice into the next century. Invited papers by 16 internationally known experts address aspects of each of the general topics, including trends in ground movements, effects of material selection and construction practices, and advances in design analyses and procedures. The 34 other papers generally address specific case histories of various types of earth retaining structures, providing results of performance monitoring, comparing predicted to actual performance, and assessing the impacts of construction practice and design procedures on performance.
01 Jan 1990
TL;DR: The final version of the Quality in the Construction Project (ASCE Manual No. 73) as discussed by the authors provides suggestions and recommendations to owners, design professionals, constructors and others on principles and procedures which have been effective in providing quality in the constructed project.
Abstract: This final version of the Quality in the Construction Project (ASCE Manual No. 73) provides suggestions and recommendations to owners, design professionals, constructors and others on principles and procedures which have been effective in providing quality in the constructed project. It also provides guidance for establishing roles, responsibilities, relationships and limits of authority for project participants; and stresses the importance of concepts and practices that enhance the quality in the constructed project. Throughout the manual, various themes considered to be of particular importance are discussed. They include such concepts as: 1) the definition and assignment of responsibility; 2) the importance of teamwork; 3) the importance of concise contractual provisions; 4) the principles of good communication; 5) the owner's selection process for project team members; and 6) the procedures for design and construction.
TL;DR: An integrated hybrid expert system for construction planning and scheduling that integrates through an expert system building tool (ESBT) a relational data base, knowledge base, and its control functions; a traditional network analysis software, and interfacing programs written in FORTRAN language.
Abstract: This paper presents an integrated hybrid expert system for construction planning and scheduling. The system integrates through an expert system building tool (ESBT) a relational data base, knowledge base, and its control functions; a traditional network analysis software, and interfacing programs written in FORTRAN language. This prototype system, which uses a microcomputer-based hybrid artificial intelligence environment, has some interesting features. One of its modules determines the job logic among the activities entered through an end-user interface. Another module, consisting of a set of stand-alone nested expert system submodules, modifies the unimpacted duration of activities to a realistic duration. These submodules account for variations in productivity level resulting from overtime, site congestion, reassignment of labor, learning curve, and weather conditions. An example application is presented to illustrate the essential features of the system. The system could be applied successfully in other domains, including teaching and training in construction management, analysis and preparation of construction claims, and management of contract changes.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors consider changes in the structure of the construction industry can be attributed in part to information costs being reduced over time, and predict an emerging industry pattern with three types of firms: specializing, co-ordinating and local.
Abstract: Changes in the structure of the construction industry can be attributed in part to information costs being reduced over time. Co-ordination, inspection and the translation of client needs are facilitated, affecting employee incentives within firms, transactions between firms and the role of intermediaries. These aspects of information technology influence the optimal configuration of construction processes within each firm in the industry. Patterns of integration are seen as dependent on the interaction of aspects of information technology with attributes of each construction process. Geographic expansion, diversification or subcontracting, integration with materials supply and into real estate are considered. An emerging industry pattern with three types of firms: specializing, co-ordinating and local is indicated, while in the long run, a development towards individuals in project networks is foreseen.
TL;DR: The results of a questionnaire that reports the use of the critical path method (CPM) in the top 400 construction companies as rated by the \IEngineering News-Record\N are presented as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The results of a questionnaire that reports the use of the critical path method (CPM) in the top 400 construction companies as rated by the \IEngineering News-Record\N are presented. Special attention is paid to application of CPM, degree of success with CPM, importance of CPM, and other planning, scheduling, and control techniques. The questionnaire responses are tabulated based on annual volume of construction, and the results are compared with a previous survey done by Davis in 1974 to indicate trends. The use of CPM by the top construction firms has increased over the past 15 years, and CPM is utilized more effectively today. The availability of good project-management software, the improvement in hardware, lower costs, and better educated personnel, among other factors, have led to increased utilization of CPM. Effective use of CPM can be the key to success for construction firms now and in the future. The main reason behind the unsuccessful use of CPM is still the lack of support from employees.
TL;DR: In this article, the challenge and innovation of the construction industry are discussed and the challenges and challenges faced by the industry are described. But they are not discussed in detail, either.
Abstract: (1990). Challenge and innovation: The challenge to the construction industry. Construction Management and Economics: Vol. 8, No. 4, pp. 431-436.
TL;DR: A construction information management system (CIMS) for the control of information used by project management successfully transfers a resource identification and tracking (RIT) technology from a manufacturing environment to control data acquisition needs for construction.
Abstract: Automated inventory control has been used for many years in such industries as manufacturing, automotive, and retail grocery. These industries have recognized technologies such as bar coding, magnetic stripe, optical character recognition, and radio frequency as viable solutions to the information and production control problems they encounter. This paper presents a construction information management system (CIMS) for the control of information used by project management. This system successfully transfers a resource identification and tracking (RIT) technology, namely bar coding, from a manufacturing environment to control data acquisition needs for construction. In addition, CIMS integrates scheduling, inventory, cost, and document control application programs with a central data base management system (DBMS) using stand-alone software, a DBMS programming language, and a spreadsheet. An introduction to the objectives and unique contribution of CIMS is presented, along with a review of other related construction industry research. The information needs of construction engineering are reviewed to determine how a system such as CIMS can satisfy those needs. A generic system architecture is described, and an implementation of the architecture is presented.
TL;DR: In this paper, a new construction scheduling technique, developed on the basis of progress charts and Gantt bar charts, is presented, and the main aim of the development is to overcome the problem of fragmentation of...
Abstract: A new construction scheduling technique, developed on the basis of progress charts and Gantt bar charts, is presented. The main aim of the development is to overcome the problem of fragmentation of...
01 Jan 1990
TL;DR: The final version of the Quality in the Construction Project (IQuality in the construction project\N (ASCE Manual No. 73) as discussed by the authors provides suggestions and recommendations to owners, design professionals, constructors and others on principles and procedures which have been effective in providing quality in the constructed project.
Abstract: This final version of the \IQuality in the Construction Project\N (ASCE Manual No. 73) provides suggestions and recommendations to owners, design professionals, constructors and others on principles and procedures which have been effective in providing quality in the constructed project. It also provides guidance for establishing roles, responsibilities, relationships and limits of authority for project participants; and stresses the importance of concepts and practices that enhance the quality in the constructed project. Throughout the manual, various themes considered to be of particular importance are discussed. They include such concepts as: 1) the definition and assignment of responsibility; 2) the importance of teamwork; 3) the importance of concise contractual provisions; 4) the principles of good communication; 5) the owner’s selection process for project team members; and 6) the procedures for design and construction.
01 Jan 1990
TL;DR: In this article, a case study is presented where a camcorder system was used as a management tool to improve labor productivity during the construction of a state prison, which resulted in measurable benefits to the project in terms of improving communication between management and labor, identifying the reasons for productivity problems, and providing irrefutable records of construction activities for training, safety, performance evaluation and possible legal disputes.
Abstract: This paper describes the use of a video camera for improving productivity on construction projects. The paper presents a step-by-step procedure for the use of the camcorder technique from purchasing the equipment to implementation of productivity improvement program. A case study is presented where a camcorder system was used as a management tool to improve labor productivity during the construction of a state prison. Data were collected for selected major work items including precast units, tilt-up panels, and preengineered metal buildings. The use of camcorders resulted in measurable benefits to the project in terms of improving communication between management and labor, identifying the reasons for productivity problems, and providing irrefutable records of construction activities for training, safety, performance evaluation, and possible legal disputes.
TL;DR: The use of Code 39 has been adopted in the United States Department of Defense (DOD) as a standard symbology that is being used in construction and most construction-related industries as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: Historically, military installations are managing their maintenance and repair and minor equipment fleets using manual records. Because of too many errors and difficulties in managing inventories, the Department of Defense (DOD) is adapting bar coding to its special needs and achieving substantial benefits in the application of this technology in a broad array of worldwide functions and responsibilities. Fortunately for engineers in construction management, DOD has adopted Code 39, a standard symbology that is being used in construction and most construction-related industries. Within the Army, Directorates of Engineering and Housing are among the first to implement the use of bar codes at their installations, beginning with management of maintenance vehicles. Preliminary productivity tests and evaluations of these uses confirm surveys conducted by the construction management industry. Implementation of bar codes in a variety of manufacturing, distributing, and scheduling functions, as well as others that are typically associated with construction management and engineering maintenance, have been shown to result in significant improvements in accuracy, efficiency, and resultant cost savings.
TL;DR: The fundamentals of electronic data interchange are discussed and an example of document translation using ANSI X12 standards is presented, and a case study implementation effort that was examined as part of a research project funded by the Construction Industry Institute is presented.
Abstract: There is a need within the construction industry to electronically transmit standard documents between designers, owners, contractors, and material suppliers. These documents include purchase orders, requests for quotations, invoices, shipping notifications, materials lists, and payment transfers. Ideally, the transmission should be structured to eliminate or reduce the rekeying of transmitted data. This paper discusses the basic elements of electronic data interchage (EDI), a technology for document transfer that has produced documented cost‐saving benefits in other industries. Through inexpensive translation software that uses industry standards, direct computer‐to‐computer transmission of most any type of document is possible. The fundamentals of electronic data interchange are discussed and an example of document translation using ANSI X12 standards is presented. A case study implementation effort that was examined as part of a research project funded by the Construction Industry Institute is also des...
TL;DR: In this paper, a knowledge-based prototype system for construction planning and scheduling is presented, and evaluated as a tool for improving the productivity of inexperienced construction project schedulers using the M.1 knowledge engineering shell.
Abstract: The development of efficient construction plans and schedules presents continuing challenges to construction schedulers. Knowledge‐based systems offer considerable potential as computer‐based planning tools to aid the development of realistic project plans and schedules. This paper outlines the development of a knowledge‐based prototype system for construction planning and scheduling and evaluates its effectiveness as a tool for improving the productivity of inexperienced construction project schedulers. The prototype, developed using the M.1 knowledge engineering shell, incorporates data bases, algorithm, and heuristics that mimic the decision process of expert construction project schedulers and identifies a work breakdown structure and precedence relationships. Inexperienced schedulers using the prototype system to plan and schedule the construction of a particular type of reinforced concrete building recorded significant improvements in scheduling performance. These results confirm the system's effect...
TL;DR: Testing methods for bar-code labels and adhesives that have been specifically developed for the conditions of construction sites are presented and suggest that bar- code technology is indeed ready for use in construction.
Abstract: Construction management, like management in other industries, relies on data that can be processed into information. In the information age, many mature technologies provide management with a variety of options for accessing data quickly and reliably. Bar-code technology is one option receiving more and more attention in general from the construction industry. Since bar codes are now rarely used in construction, knowledge about their applicability in this industry is sparse and lacks any scientific background. In particular, the question of the survivability of bar-code labels in the construction environment has never been investigated. This paper presents testing methods for bar-code labels and adhesives that have been specifically developed for the conditions of construction sites. Results of laboratory and field experiments using the testing procedures will be evaluated as a basis for general recommendations. Also presented are data input concepts developed for a specific application. The encouraging results of the research effort suggest that bar-code technology is indeed ready for use in construction.
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TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a Practitioner's Guide to Construction Management and Economics: Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 1-2, with a focus on the following topics:
Abstract: (1990). Practitioner's Guide. Construction Management and Economics: Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 1-2.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a model for the fair resolution of discrepancies concerning technical specifications in construction contracts, which leads to projects with fewer disputes, resulting in a reduced need for arbitration and litigation and thus lower overhead costs for both owners and contractors.
Abstract: Technical specifications constitute that portion of the contract documents that control the performance of the construction project. The technical specifications impact all parts of the construction project. Clear specifications and a consistent understanding of the intent of the specifications by all parties leads to a project of higher quality. The specifications also protect the right of the contractor to choose methods of construction and provide assurance that the owner will receive the required performance from the finished product. Specifications that fulfill these demands often lead to better relations through consistent decision making and proper delegation of responsibility. The prompt clarification of ambiguities and the fair resolution of discrepancies concerning technical specifications leads to projects with fewer disputes, resulting in a reduced need for arbitration and litigation and thus lower overhead costs for both owners and contractors.