Linear scheduling and procurement tools to manage geotechnical risk in design-build construction projects

By integrating Linear Scheduling Method (LSM) concepts with risk modeling methods and using state-of-the practice contractual risk management, a framework is proposed to manage geotechnical uncertainty in construction projects. LSM provides an effective tool for graphically depicting a design-build (DB) project’s schedule in terms of both estimated and actual production rates in relation to physical locations on the project. When the LSM tool is combined with risk analysis calculations and geotechnical site information, it provides a vehicle for effectively allocating geotechnical risk, and when used forensically, furnishes a means to visually quantify delays during dispute resolution. The use of alternative methods for quantifying and managing geotechnical risks is explored by incorporating the LSM format and DB procurement along with the implementation of contractual risk management tools, providing a framework for managing the uncertainty of underground conditions in a way that increases the effectiveness of communication and analysis. A forensic approach is also proposed using the LSM format to visualize actual production data drawn from daily work reports in a single chart to accurately depict the events that occurred during construction, thus demonstrating the potential of the LSM format as a communication tool to draw conclusions from information that otherwise would not be apparent using the Critical Path Method (CPM). Additionally, a risk management and planning approach is also explored with the use of LSM combined with stochastic simulations to represent the estimated impact of geotechnical risks and integrating it with the geological interpretation of the site. By integrating LSM, stochastic simulations for schedule risks, and state-of-the-practice contracting methods, the study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing an innovative approach to increase the effectiveness for managing the geotechnical risk in DB projects.