Time Optimization Technique Using Reliable Commitment Model

Abstract

Construction is a very complex process and nearly every single project is unique. The resulting number of parts, relative lack of standardization, multiple participants and constraining factors make construction projects a difficult endeavour. Adding to this complexity is the high degree of interdependency inherent to the construction process. Complexity can be defined as “something made up of closely connected parts which are difficult to explain or understand, or a number of different parts intricately related”. Due to the inherent complexity, uncertainty, and variability of the construction process, it is important to study the root causes of time buffer used to protect against those challenging characteristics. Reliable Commitment Model, RCM, a new decision-making tool, using statistical models to develop more reliable work plans at the operational level in repetitive projects. RCM increases planning reliability, reduces variability, and promotes a continuous workflow with short waiting times. The main objective is to study the potential improvement on project performance when using RCM to manage WIP buffers at the site or operational level. Worker weeks and process progress are used as the main performance measures in a repetitive building project. RCM analyses the problems of planning process at the operational level shows that one of the most important reason for non-completion of weekly plans in repetitive project is the lack of WIP. RCM predicts the process progress by using variables such as Worker weeks, WIP buffer and planned progress, using Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) at the operational level.