A review of methodologies for performance evaluation of automated construction processes

Krishnamoorthi, S and Raphael, B (2022) A review of methodologies for performance evaluation of automated construction processes. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 12(5), pp. 719-737. ISSN 2044-124X

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to synthesize knowledge related to performance evaluation of automated construction processes during the planning and execution phases through a theme-based literature classification. The primary research question that is addressed is “How to quantify the performance improvement in automated construction processes?” Design/methodology/approach: A systematic literature review of papers on automated construction was conducted involving three stages-planning, conducting and reporting. In the planning stage, the purpose of the review is established through key research questions. Then, a four-step process is employed consisting of identification, screening, shortlisting and inclusion of papers. For reporting, observations were critically analysed and categorized according to themes. Findings: The primary conclusion from this study is that the effectiveness of construction processes can only be benchmarked using realistic simulations. Simulations help to pinpoint the root causes of success or failure of projects that are either already completed or under execution. In automated construction, there are many complex interactions between humans and machines; therefore, detailed simulation models are needed for accurate predictions. One key requirement for simulation is the calibration of the models using real data from construction sites. Research limitations/implications: This study is based on a review of 169 papers from a database of peer-reviewed journals, within a time span of 50 years. Originality/value: Gap in research in the area of performance evaluation of automated construction is brought out. The importance of simulation models calibrated with on-site data within a methodology for performance evaluation is highlighted.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: construction automation; discrete event simulation; project performance evaluation; remote construction project management
Index terms: automation, systematic literature review, discrete event simulation, performance improvement, performance evaluation, automated construction, journal, construction site, automated construction process, construction process, project performance, database, effectiveness, methodology, interaction, construction project management, screening
Subjects: automation and robotics, performance measurement, work location, research methods, modelling and simulation, building construction, data management, management, research evaluation and metrics, performance management, research dissemination and communication, behavioral psychology, project management theory and practice
Topics: Digital Applications, Quality Management, Human Resources, Site Management, Research Practice, Project Management
Descriptive scope: 5 PCTEA

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