Al-Tabbaa, O and Rustom, R (2011) General framework for designing multi-use simulation modules for estimating project durations. Construction Innovation, 11(3), pp. 321-337. ISSN 1471-4175
Abstract
Purpose - This paper seeks to propose a general framework to be used in developing multi-use simulation modules for estimating project durations at the planning phase. Design/methodology/approach - The research method incorporates two main stages. First, conceptualisation of the general framework, and second, implementing the framework in modelling and experimenting simulation modules, which involves data collection, statistical analysis, templates building through the ARENA software, and modules verification and validation. Findings - The framework was found to be effective in providing an approach for building multi-use simulation modules. The validation and verification processes of the developed simulation module reflect the soundness of the proposed framework. Practical implications - Useful insights have been presented in this research regarding building multi-use simulation modules in infrastructure construction projects. In addition, the paper demonstrates examples about how simulation interaction interface can contribute to the efficiency of using the simulation technique. Originality/value - Given the lack of general approaches for building multi-use simulation modules, this research suggests a simplified approach for developing multi-use modules. Both academics and practitioners can benefit from this new approach by understanding the mechanism behind the multi-use model concept as explained in this paper.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | multi-use simulation modules; probabilistic approach; project planning; sewer pipeline construction; simulation; simulation interaction interface |
| Index terms: | duration, interaction, modelling, module, statistical analysis, efficiency, estimating, project planning, infrastructure construction, validation, practitioner, methodology, pipeline construction, sewer |
| Subjects: | control systems, practitioner, financial and cost management, analytical methods, data science, professional development, civil engineering, performance management, research methods, architectural elements, behavioral psychology, infrastructure and transport systems, project controls |
| Topics: | Roles and Professions, Cost Management, Project Management, Research Practice, Engineering Principles, Information Management, Time Control, Design Practice, Quality Management |
| 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