Integrated methodology to design and manage work-inprocess byffers in respetitive building projects. http://dx.doi.org/10.1057/jors.2012.163

Abstract

An integrated methodology to design and manage buffers in repetitive building projects using work-in-process at conceptual level is proposed. The buffer design framework employs the Multiobjective Analytic Model and Simulation-Optimisation techniques, applied at strategic and tactical scheduling levels. The buffer management framework uses a statistical model to predict work progress, the Reliable Commitment Model, applied at operational scheduling level. The integrated methodology provides a new buffering approach for scheduling repetitive building projects, which considers: (1) a general production framework covering all the production levels from top to bottom; (2) a general modelling structure suitable to any type of repetitive building project; and (3) a sound theoretical and practical framework describing different production scenarios. The benefits of using this methodology are illustrated through a hypothetical project application.