Role of simulation in construction engineering and management

Abourizk, S (2010) Role of simulation in construction engineering and management. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 136(10), pp. 1140-1153. ISSN 0733-9364

Abstract

Construction simulation is the science of developing and experimenting with computer-based representations of construction systems to understand their underlying behavior. This branch of operations research applications in construction management has experienced significant academic growth over the past two decades. In this paper, the author summarizes his views on this topic as per his Peurifoy address, given in October 2008. The paper provides an overview of advancements in construction simulation theory as reported in literature. It then summarizes the key factors that contribute to successful deployment of simulation in the construction industry, and the key attributes of problems that make them more amenable for simulation modeling as opposed to other tools. The paper then provides an overview of long-term simulation initiatives leading to the next generation of computer modeling systems for construction, where simulation plays an integral role in a futuristic vision of automated project planning and control.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: automation; decision support; simulation; tunneling
Index terms: construction simulation, decision support, key attribute, science, project planning, construction system, operations research, computer modelling, simulation modelling, construction engineering, construction industry, automation
Subjects: industry analysis, building construction, decision analysis, automation and robotics, engineering methods, analytical methods, modelling and simulation, specialized education, control systems, design methods, risk assessment
Topics: Risk Management, Engineering Principles, Research Practice, Project Management, Education, Digital Applications, Design Practice
Descriptive scope: 4 PCTA

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