Hybrid fuzzy Monte Carlo agent-based modeling of workforce motivation and performance in construction

Raoufi, M and Fayek, A R (2021) Hybrid fuzzy Monte Carlo agent-based modeling of workforce motivation and performance in construction. Construction Innovation, 21(3), pp. 398-416. ISSN 1471-4175

Abstract

This paper aims to cover the development of a methodology for hybrid fuzzy Monte Carlo agent-based simulation (FMCABS) and its implementation on a parametric study of construction crew performance. The developed methodology uses fuzzy logic, Monte Carlo simulation and agent-based modeling to simulate the behavior of construction crews and predict their performance. Both random and subjective uncertainties are considered in model variables. The developed methodology was implemented on a real case involving the parametric study of construction crew performance to assess its applicability and suitability for this context. This parametric study demonstrates a practical application for the hybrid FMCABS methodology. Though findings from this study are limited to the context of construction crew motivation and performance, the applicability of the developed methodology extends beyond the construction domain. Practical implications: This paper will help construction practitioners to predict and improve crew performance by taking into account both random and subjective uncertainties. Social implications: This paper will advance construction modeling by allowing for the assessment of social interactions among crews and their effects on crew performance. The developed hybrid FMCABS methodology represents an original contribution, as it allows agent-based models to simultaneously process all types of variables (i.e. deterministic, random and subjective) in the same simulation experiment while accounting for interactions among different agents. In addition, the developed methodology is implemented in a novel and extensive parametric study of construction crew performance.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: agent-based modeling; crew performance; fuzzy logic; hybrid simulation; Monte Carlo simulation; motivation
Index terms: motivation, construction practitioner, suitability, accounting, agent, methodology, Monte Carlo simulation, simulation experiment, agent-based modelling, fuzzy logic, modelling, implementation, interaction, social interaction, crew performance, hybrid simulation
Subjects: professional development, management, research methods, design criteria, behavioral psychology, sociology, practitioner, contractual arrangements, data science, economic analysis, analytical methods, psychology, modelling and simulation
Topics: Site Management, Human Resources, Digital Applications, Design Practice, Procurement, Roles and Professions, Information Management, Engineering Principles, Research Practice, Business Strategy
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