Zou, X and Rong, Z (2025) Resource-constrained repetitive project scheduling with soft logic. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 32(4), pp. 2397-2429. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose: In repetitive projects, repetition offers more possibilities for activity scheduling at the sub-activity level. However, existing resource-constrained repetitive scheduling problem (RCRSP) models assume that there is only one sequence in performing the sub-activities of each activity, resulting in an inefficient resource allocation. This paper proposes a novel repetitive scheduling model for solving RCRSP with soft logic. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, a constraint programming model is developed to solve the RCRSP using soft logic, aiming at the possible relationship between parallel execution, orderly execution or partial parallel and partial orderly execution of different sub activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. The proposed model integrated crew assignment strategies and allowed continuous or fragmented execution. Findings: When solving RCRSP, it is necessary to take soft logic into account. If managers only consider the fixed logic between sub-activities, they are likely to develop a delayed schedule. The practicality and effectiveness of the model were verified by a housing project based on eight different scenarios. The results showed that the constraint programming model outperformed its equivalent mathematical model in terms of solving speed and solution quality. Originality/value: Available studies assume a fixed logic between sub-activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. However, there is no fixed construction sequence between sub-activities for some projects, e.g. hotel renovation projects. Therefore, this paper considers the soft logic relationship between sub-activities and investigates how to make the objective optimal without violating the resource availability constraint.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | optimization; project management; scheduling; soft logic |
| Index terms: | methodology, manager, repetitive scheduling, scheduling, mathematical model, strategy, housing project, hotel, renovation, constraint programming, effectiveness, project management, resource allocation, repetitive project |
| Subjects: | mathematical modelling, resource management, renovation and retrofit, management, performance management, project management theory and practice, construction type, practitioner, operations research, algorithms, research methods, production management, housing and residential development |
| Topics: | Digital Applications, Urban Studies, Site Management, Time Control, Research Practice, Business Strategy, Construction Technology, Roles and Professions, Quality Management, Project Management, Engineering Principles |
| 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