Planning repetitive construction: Current practice

This paper presents a review of existing techniques for planning and analysing linear construction operations. The family of techniques which are based on the line of balance (LOB) concept (e.g. linear scheduling method, vertical production method, line of balance scheduling, repetitive project model, velocity diagrams, and timespace scheduling method) are introduced, the line of balance concept is discussed, and the barriers toimplementation for LOB are addressed. Field monitoring techniques (e.g. work sampling, activity sampling, Timelapse, MPDM, questionnaires, crew balance chart, and video) and analytical planning techniques (e.g.network scheduling, linear programming, dynamic programming, queueing, and simulation) are described. Repetitive construction modelling requirements are introduced, and simulation applications are discussed. Theevolution and capabilities of simulation programmes which lend themselves to use by the construction industryare presented. Benefits and limitations of the techniques presented are also addressed.