Nassar, N K (2005) An integrated framework for evaluation, forecasting and optimization of performance of construction projects. PhD thesis, University of Alberta, Canada.
Abstract
Performance management of construction projects is one of the most challenging and critical tasks carried out by construction organizations. The successful delivery of construction projects requires management of all project aspects. The main objective of this research is to develop an integrated framework for evaluation, forecasting and optimization of performance of construction projects. This research focuses on the construction phase of a project and is intended for implementation by contractors. This research presents a systematic and comprehensive integrated model for performance management. A systematic and unified construction performance measurement methodology was developed to evaluate and integrate all project objectives including cost, schedule, cashflow, profitability, safety, quality, project team satisfaction, and client satisfaction. Using dynamic Markov Chains, a stochastic model was developed to forecast the dynamic nature of construction performance. The forecasting model incorporates user feedback, historic trends, and latest project status to predict the performance of any objective at any future time and at project completion. Moreover, the integrated model offers an innovative mechanism, using genetic algorithms, to assist users select corrective action plans that lead to better project performance. In addition, this research proposes the concept of a guide in a matrix form to resolve contradictions among the various performance indices. This research introduced a framework for managing a distributed project performance system using multi agent systems. It also included an extensive literature review that identified and discussed specific work related to measurement, forecasting, and optimization of performance of construction projects. The proposed integrated framework is unique in the sense that it is mathematically derived and it deals with a single project phase. Although the proposed methodology is intended for use by contracting companies during the construction phase, it can be adapted for use by any project-driven company during any phase of a project. The proposed system is based on quantitative models, but it does not eliminate the role of sound subjective judgment and feedback by users. It offers a tool to assist construction managers better plan their projects through efficient and effective decision-making.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | genetic algorithms; measurement; measurement method; optimization; project team; construction project; client satisfaction; construction phase; feedback; forecasting; safety; client; project performance |
| Index terms: | profitability, client satisfaction, project performance, implementation, construction phase, project team, performance management, integrated model, construction organization, judgment, Markov chain, satisfaction, forecasting, construction performance, decision-making, methodology, construction project, construction manager, multi-agent system, measurement method, genetic algorithm, literature review |
| Subjects: | performance assessment, artificial intelligence, data analysis and analytics, contractual arrangements, analytical methods, project delivery, financial and cost management, prediction and forecasting, economic analysis, dispute resolution, profession, mathematical modelling, client relations, organization, decision analysis, production management, project management theory and practice, performance measurement, research methods, algorithms |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy, Cost Management, Roles and Professions, Stakeholder Management, Digital Applications, Site Management, Project Management, Procurement, Risk Management, Quality Management, Legal Issues |
| 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