Abstract
The paper reviews the dependence of labor productivity on the number of workers within a unit of working area (i.e. workforce density) in the construction sector. The relevance of the problem is demonstrated. Some limitations of the linear model for the dependence, assumed in the construction sector, are discussed. These limitations are linked up with the neglect of labor productivity reduction due to the increased density. The proposed by some researchers concepts which account for the above factor are listed. Their drawbacks are indicated, and the necessity of further research is shown. A “hyperbolic model” is proposed, in which one worker productivity is constant for a certain workforce density rate and then it drops down with the increasing speed. Work productivity reduction in such model is described by the “hyperbolic growth” function. The primary approbation of the model was done for some construction operations at the nuclear power plant reactor building. The density rate was optimized (as per deadline reduction criterion) for this case according to the “hyperbolic model”.
Highlights
It is accepted in calendar and network planning in the construction sector that the total team output linearly depends on the workforce density
The first results of testing the model show that it allows us to estimate the dependence of labor productivity on workforce density and the optimal number of workers with pretty high accuracy
An algorithm for the finding the optimum of the number of workers which corresponds to the maximum total team output is offered
Summary
It is accepted in calendar and network planning in the construction sector that the total team output linearly depends on the workforce density (the number of workers within a unit of working area). In the case of limited work front one worker productivity rate is constant only until the working space is not congested, and the more workers are involved in the operations the greater is their common productivity. It is so until the workforce density achieves a certain level when productivity is affected by mutual interferences. Modeling the dependence of labor productivity on the workforce density may allow finding the mentioned optimum as well as improving the accuracy of calendar planning
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