Flood, I and Issa, R R A (2010) Empirical modeling methodologies for construction. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 136(1), pp. 36-48. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
The paper provides a review of empirical modeling and its application within construction engineering and management. The scope of application and trends in use of this approach are first assessed, and the potential for its further development is identified. This is followed by an examination of the key components of empirical modeling, namely: the structure and operation of the model and the scheme used in its development. The paper then provides a rigorous methodology that must be followed to ensure the validity and value of the end model, covering the steps: strategizing; data collation and assessment; model development; model evaluation and final selection; final validation; and implementation. The methodology is designed to cater for all forms of empirical modeling including the procedurally more demanding development algorithms that have become available in recent years, such as simulated evolution. Overall, the paper is designed to provide researchers embarking on an empirical modeling study with an overview of when it is appropriate to use this approach, what type of system to adopt, and how to ensure development of a successful end product.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | data analysis; data collection; development algorithm; dynamic model; empirical modeling; model validation; static model; structured model |
| Index terms: | construction engineering, modelling, implementation, validity, methodology, evolution, validation, model development, static model, data analysis |
| Subjects: | engineering methods, research methods, professional development, modelling and simulation, contractual arrangements, data analysis and analytics, environmental science, analytical methods, evaluation and assessment methods |
| Topics: | Engineering Principles, Information Management, Research Practice, Sustainability, Procurement |
| 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