Multi-Objective Optimization Approach To Develop Resilient Baseline Schedules

Abstract

Time and cost overruns are a major problem in the construction industry, and this is particularly noticeable in complex projects where the dynamic environment causes many undesirable disruptions during the execution of a project. Therefore, it is important to develop effective strategies for overcoming the negative impact of uncertainty, so the initial planning calculations can be accepted with higher confidence levels. The main purpose of this study is to propose a multi-objective optimization approach to manage prevailing uncertainty in the process of construction planning by producing resilient solutions. This framework deploys a comprehensive optimization problem and a metaheuristic solving procedure to devise baseline schedules that are resilient to prevailing uncertainty in complex construction projects. Such an approach leads to a higher probability of respecting both due date and budget restrictions in a construction project. Simulation results show that by inserting suitable floats in a baseline schedule, the overall capacity to absorb uncertain prolongations is improved. Since the stability of an initial schedule is enhanced, a resilient baseline solution leads to less frequent schedule updates during the execution phase and it facilitates subcontracting practices as well as resource procurement. Implementation of modern optimization methods in construction planning practices enables practical solving of complex scheduling problems that are important for general project management.