Everett, J G and Farghal, S (1994) Learning curve predictors for construction field operations. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 120(3), pp. 603-616. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
Many repetitive construction field operations exhibit a learning curve, over which the time or cost per cycle decreases as the cycle number increases. This paper evaluates several mathematical models to determine which best describes the relationship between the activity time or cost and the cycle number. For completed activities, cubic learning curve models are found to provide the most reliable statistical fit, and linear models provide the least reliable fit. The real potential value of learning curves is their ability to predict the time or cost needed to perform future activities. This paper presents a methodology for predicting future activity time or cost based on completed activity data. The best predictors of future performance are found to be linear models. The cubic models that best describe completed activities are poor predictors of future performance.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Index terms: | repetitive construction, mathematical model, methodology |
| Subjects: | mathematical modelling, research methods, building construction |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Construction Technology |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PTA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here