Learning construction performance improvement through planning

Construction operations can be categorized as either routine and repetitive or unique and complex. Routine and repetitive construction operations can be improved through traditional field operations analysis techniques, while unique and complex operations can be improved through reactively analyzing and proactively planning similar operations. The intent of planning is to assemble the information and knowledge necessary to successfully execute the work. Laboratory exercises were developed as part of both undergraduate and graduate level construction engineering and management education programs to demonstrate the benefits of detailed operations pre-planning for unique and complex construction operations. The undergraduate exercise improved the understanding of the construction requirements, reduced the amount of rework required, and reduced the average construction duration by nearly 30%. The graduate exercise reduced construction duration by approximately 40% and significant improvements were reported in material handling, understanding of responsibilities, and work flow efficiency. In both exercises, the concept of pre-planning and the resulting benefits were realized.