Dynamic scheduling optimization model and algorithm for linear projects considering local rescheduling

zhao, X. and lu, R. (2025) Dynamic scheduling optimization model and algorithm for linear projects considering local rescheduling. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 33(5), pp. 4019-4045. ISSN 0969-9988

Abstract

Purpose – Linear projects often involve lengthy construction periods, necessitating dynamic adjustments to the plan. Completely rescheduling remaining activities every time can lead to unnecessary time and cost wastage and significant deviations in resource supply. To address these issues, this paper proposes a dynamic scheduling method designed to effectively manage both time and cost during construction projects. Design/methodology/approach – Determining the rescheduling frequency through a hybrid driving strategy and buffer mechanism, introducing rolling window technology to determine the scope of local rescheduling and constructing a local rescheduling model under the constraints of time and cost deviation with the objective of minimizing the cost. Combined decision-making for construction and rushing modes constrained by multiple construction scenarios. Opposite learning is introduced to optimize the hybrid algorithm solution. Findings – Arithmetic examples and cases confirm the model's feasibility and applicability. The results indicate that (1) continuous rescheduling throughout project construction is essential and effective and (2) a well-structured buffer mechanism can prevent redundant rescheduling and enhance overall control of cost and schedule deviations. Originality/value – This study introduces an innovative dynamic scheduling framework for linear engineering, offering a method for effectively controlling schedule deviations during construction. The developed model enhances rescheduling efficiency and introduces a combined quantization strategy to increase the model's applicability to linear engineering. This model emerges as a promising decision support tool, facilitating the implementation of sustainable construction scheduling practices.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: linear scheduling method; local rescheduling; opposite learning; time and cost deviations
Index terms: buffer, window, scheduling, decision support, methodology, sustainable construction, cost deviation, strategy, decision-making, efficiency, deviation, linear scheduling, construction project, implementation
Subjects: management, contractual arrangements, research methods, architectural elements, sustainable construction, decision analysis, financial and cost management, performance management, financial risk, operations research, production management
Topics: Quality Management, Project Management, Research Practice, Time Control, Procurement, Business Strategy, Sustainability, Cost Management, Risk Management, Design Practice
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

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