A conceptual procedural framework for effective scheduling to enhance efficient use of construction resources on the jobsite
Abstract
Selection of construction methods, scheduling, site layout and component procurement
arrangement affect efficiency of operations on the jobsite. Efficiency has been
previously measured by such parameters as; budget, on time completion and meeting
specification standards. Little attention has been given to the interim processes which
create these. Efficiency in man- and machine-hour management may translate to cost
and time gains and enhanced quality.
The study reported recognises that there are numerous aspects to the question of
efficiency of operations. To focus the study and narrow the scope to a manageable size,
the issues of efficiency that can be addressed in the scheduling process are those
considered.
Extensive and thorough literature search identified guidelines for effective construction
scheduling. Empirical data were collected following these guidelines to develop a
scheduling procedure aimed at making the process more effective and which may
enhance efficient use of construction resources on the jobsite. The developed framework
show that activity criticality based on time analysis alone is a necessary condition but
not usually sufficient to declare an activity critical. Other tasks not on the critical path
which have very high delay potential should be considered. Therefore though the study
does not out rightly refute the idea of criticality based on time analysis alone, it adds to
it that if criticality means those things that should be done so as to progress the works to
a scheduled finish, criticality should be re-assessed to include several other tasks not
hitherto identified on the critical path.