Benefit and cost analysis: Three-dimensional computer models with integrated databases in the management of construction

Li, W (1995) Benefit and cost analysis: Three-dimensional computer models with integrated databases in the management of construction. PhD thesis, Columbia University, USA.

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to provide simple, cost effective but structured and robust methodologies for benefit-cost analysis. Two paradigms are investigated. One is classical statistical technique-multiple regression, the other is modern artificial intelligence technique-neural networks. This study shows that artificial neural networks deliver better performance in terms of accuracy. However, regression analysis provides the baseline for the newer methods. Each has unique advantages and disadvantages, and hence each is appropriate for distinct types of problems. The combination of statistics and artificial neural network yield the best results. The objective of this research is to quantify the benefit-cost impacts that occur on a construction project if three-dimensional computer models with integrated databases are used in the management of construction. The results show that 3D computer models when used properly in the management of construction have significant influence on construction cost and rework metrics. The use of 3D models has little significant effect on construction duration metrics. The level of model use is critical since poor use of 3D computer models is worse than no use at all. This research shows that three-dimensional computer models with integrated databases can significantly improve the construction metrics.

Item Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Thesis advisor: Griffs, F H
Uncontrolled Keywords: accuracy; duration; construction cost; construction project; 3D models; artificial intelligence; cost analysis; multiple regression; regression analysis; artificial neural network; neural network
Index terms: construction project, cost analysis, artificial neural network, construction cost, neural network, artificial intelligence, statistics, regression analysis, paradigm, rework, methodology, 3D model, duration, multiple-regression, database, accuracy
Subjects: artificial intelligence, research methods, mathematical modelling, production management, computational design, financial and cost management, operations management, data management, modelling and simulation, professional development, statistical analysis, project controls, education and knowledge transfer
Topics: Project Management, Research Practice, Information Management, Digital Applications, Cost Management, Time Control
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