Flexible management of critical path method schedules in complex construction projects

Abstract

The Critical Path Method (CPM), the primary and widely used method of scheduling, is known to be inadequate when applied to complex construction projects characterised by high uncertainty and dynamic conditions. Additionally, when managing CPM schedules, utilising traditional plan-driven approaches that lack sufficient flexibility can worsen the situation. This study aims to propose a hybrid approach that incorporates both plan-driven and change-driven features for the flexible management of CPM schedules in complex construction projects. The approach leverages the flexibilities inherent in CPM and a number of flexibility-enabling agents identified from relevant literature. Because project phases have different conditions, two distinct hybrid processes were designed for implementation – one for the preconstruction phase and the other for the construction phase. The applicability of the approach was demonstrated retrospectively in a design project that faced a significant delay compared to the contractual requirement. This application revealed deficiencies that contributed to the delay of the project. The findings suggest that the delay could have been avoided with the proposed approach. Consequently, this approach has the potential to contribute to the development of enhanced project management methodologies. This
study represents an initiative in this regard, specifically focusing on schedule management, a major component of project management.