Visual workload leveling and zoning using work density method for construction process planning

A method for construction process planning is presented together with a visualization and computing support tool named ViWoLZo-2. The method is based on the work density construct that depicts the time a trade contractor (trade) needs to complete a certain scope of work, location by location. The method helps planners explore alternative process durations by allowing them to divide the work space into zones to increase concurrency in their plan and smooth the workflow. ViWoLZo-2 can be configured for any site plan and process step sequence. The program computes work density, which is then used for workload leveling and zoning, and depicts metrics to gauge the quality of the plan. Although work density data may not yet be readily available, they can be collected and used in ViWoLZo-2 to support a planner's what-if analyses and replace more subjective approaches for creating plan concurrency. The paper concludes with recommendations for tool enhancements and suggestions for follow-on research. The contribution to knowledge is the design and implementation of a novel tool for construction process planning.