A hierarchical constraint-based approach to modeling construction and manufacturing processes

Modeling construction processes is an essential part of project planning and control. Most modeling exercises use the Critical Path Method (CPM) since it is simple to use and versatile. Almost all other modeling techniques are aimed at specialized types of construction work, such as linear scheduling which is used for modeling work that progresses along a line. Discrete-event simulation has also been used for construction modeling, and while it is extremely versatile, it lacks the simplicity in use of CPM and so has not been widely adopted within the industry. This paper goes back to first principles, identifying the needs of construction project planning and how existing tools meet (or fail to meet) these requirements. Based on this, a new modeling paradigm is proposed that is better suited to the needs of contemporary construction project planning. The principles of the method are demonstrated in application to three example construction projects.