Productivity Scheduling Method Compared to Linear and Repetitive Project Scheduling Methods
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 134, Issue 9
Abstract
The analysis of project schedules is among the central tasks of construction managers. Parallel to the well-known critical path method, linear scheduling techniques have been researched. The two most fully developed existing methods, the linear scheduling model and the repetitive scheduling method, are reviewed. Based on a discussion of a published example, the new mathematical analysis method for linear and repetitive schedules is introduced. The productivity scheduling method is based on singularity functions that provide a flexible and powerful mathematical model for construction activities and their buffers that are characterized by their linear or repetitive nature. The steps of formulating initial equations, stacking and consolidating them, and deriving information about their criticality are described in detail. The mathematical approach of the new method allows an integrated treatment of activities regardless of the number of changes in productivity within them and does not depend on the graphical representation of the schedule.
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Acknowledgments
The support of the National Science Foundation (Grant No. NSFCMMI-0654318) for portions of the work presented here is gratefully acknowledged. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 134 • Issue 9 • September 2008
Pages: 711 - 720
Copyright
© 2008 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 12, 2007
Accepted: Feb 1, 2008
Published online: Sep 1, 2008
Published in print: Sep 2008
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