Classification of Modular Building Construction Projects Based on Schedule-Driven Approach

Abstract

Modular construction projects involve concurrent manufacturing production and construction processes for constructing the main structure and the foundation, on-site installation, and finishing work. Using process-driven project scheduling, it is difficult to analyze how different issues affect the overall project schedule and determine alternative solutions based on what-if scenario analysis (WISA). This paper proposes the classification of modular building construction projects as manufacturing driven, on-site driven, or a combination to improve scheduling strategies based on a schedule-driven approach. The scheduling focus is shifted from the working precedence (manufacturing → transportation → installation) to project scales and constraint changes. A discrete-event simulation model is developed for modular construction projects, and WISA is performed in actual modular construction projects. It is noted that compared with the existing WISA method that obtains construction schedule probabilities for specific tasks sequentially and independently, scheduling-based project classification and reflection of expected events are more effective in examining and determining scheduling alternatives. The proposed scheduling strategies and simulation model can enable project managers to assess several alternative scheduling solutions based on project characteristics.