Ezeldin, A S and Sharara, L M (2006) Neural networks for estimating the productivity of voncreting activities. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 132(6), pp. 650-656. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
To overcome the variability and the impact of subjective factors on the cost of concrete-related activities in developing countries, neural networks can offer a guiding tool. In this study, three neural networks were developed to estimate the productivity, within a developing market, for formwork assembly, steel fixing, and concrete pouring activities. Eighteen experts working in six projects were carefully selected to gather the data for the neural networks. Ninety-two data surveys were obtained and processed for use by the neural networks. Commercial software was used to perform the neural network calculations. The processed data were used to develop, train, and test the neural networks. The results of the developed framework of neural networks indicate adequate convergence and relatively strong generalization capabilities. When used to perform a sensitivity analysis on the input factors influencing the productivity of concreting activities, the framework has demonstrated a good potential in identifying trends of such factors.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | computer application; concrete; developing countries; neural network; productivity; project management |
| Index terms: | concreting, estimating, sensitivity analysis, developing country, survey, neural network, variability, project management, estimate, formwork, productivity, computer application |
| Subjects: | financial and cost management, artificial intelligence, data collection methods, environmental hazards, statistical analysis, building construction, development economics, project management theory and practice, software systems, management |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Business Strategy, Cost Management, Construction Technology, Sustainability, International Construction, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCE |
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