Work-Package–Process Model for Piping Construction

Abstract

This paper presents a work-packaging–process model for petrochemical plant piping construction. The model's basic foundation is formed by identifying major decision variables that affect the work-packaging process. The model's main structure is developed by formalizing the evaluation processes of those variables through identification of related work-packaging conventions and associated data items. A series of heuristics are presented that can be used to define the work packages at the most detailed planning level. The model is developed using the data flow diagram (DFD) technique. DFD's are useful as modeling tools prior to automating any process because they help graphically identify conflicts and redundancies in information flow. The example in this paper demonstrates the potential of the work-packaging concept for modeling other planning, design, and construction work processes.