Russell, J S (1988) A knowledge-based system approach to the contractor prequalification process. PhD thesis, Purdue University, USA.
Abstract
This thesis presents the results of research analyzing the contractor prequalification process and its relevant decision parameters. Prequalification consists of a wide range of criteria of which information is both qualitative and subjective. This process is typically performed in an unstructured intuitive manner with considerable reliance on the judgment of a prequalification official. Thus, the thesis focuses on a more formalized approach to contractor prequalification. The research began with an analysis of contractor prequalification as it is currently performed in industry. The initial analysis is based on 8 personal and 24 telephone interviews with industry professionals who have extensive experience with prequalification. Next, a questionnaire was used to gather more data on significant decision parameters. Qualitative and quantitative statistical analyses of these data was performed. A computerized decision model for contractor prequalification, QUALIFIER-1 was developed. Data on prequalification practices collected during research were utilized in the formulation and quantification of the model. The model uses a dimensional weighting approach prequalification decision-making. This approach, when applied in practice, provides a valuable tool for prequalification officials by structuring and automating the decision process support. A knowledge intensive prototype expert system program for contractor prequalification, QUALIFIER-2 has been developed. The program represents a significant amount of effort expended for knowledge acquisition and compilation. The results of this research have been reviewed by numerous prequalification officials and positive comments have been received regarding their practicality. The developed prequalification programs have been successfully applied to actual construction project cases.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Thesis advisor: | Skibniewski, M J |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction project; expert system; prequalification; professional; quantification; interview |
| Index terms: | knowledge acquisition, knowledge-based system, decision process, statistical analysis, quantification, judgment, construction project, program, decision-making, questionnaire, expert system, prototype, interview |
| Subjects: | production management, software systems, student development, decision analysis, measurement and scaling, data management, dispute resolution, data collection methods, data science, artificial intelligence, modelling and simulation |
| Topics: | Risk Management, Research Practice, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Education, Legal Issues, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCEA |
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