Dynamic Modeling of Building Services Projects: A Simulation Model for Real-Life Hospital Project

Abstract

All infrastructure projects are said to be inter-dependent, uncertain and labour-intensive in nature. There is no exception for building services sub sector. For a real time project such as 'The construction, extension and refurbishment of Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital at Tirupathy, India with total area of 45,000 square feet at an estimated cost of 1100 million rupees, a generic process model is developed to simulate the effect of set of identified variables on construction project. The 'Stocks and Flows' of dynamic model affords relevant insights to project managers, who apply this knowledge when designing better performance through more appropriate project planning. It is concluded from the model-based approach that building services works can be improved through specific better focussed managerial efforts, such as an increasing coordination effectiveness at the planning stage, clarifying prerequisite conditions prior to installations. Otherwise, pending works arising from work clashes can lead to knock-on effects resulting in productivity constraints and pressures, as well as more rework and demolition. Current study reveals that the model enables deep insight into various interdependent processes, their by improving construction performance levels, by addressing the dynamics of design errors and defective works, and recovering delayed schedule.