Generation, visualization, and evaluation schedule of repetitive construction projects using GIS

Abstract

Surroundings is a major factor that affects scheduling of a repetitive construction project. But, both the past experience of planner and the commercially available tools are limited to take the effects of surroundings on the developed schedule into consideration. Therefore, geographic information systems (GIS) are used in the current study to consider the effects of surroundings on the schedule of a repetitive construction project. The interactive tool for project scheduling is developed in GIS environment by writing in-house scripts for both non-repetitive and repetitive units. 4D execution sequences along with its surroundings have been developed in GIS by linking schedule of a repetitive project with related 3D components. Hence, the effects of surroundings on the schedule of a repetitive construction project can be considered through using GIS in the current case study. Also, the 4D execution sequence along with its surroundings is used in checking the constructability of the developed schedule. Moreover, it helps in identifying logical errors, missing activities in the schedule, spatial feasibility, and constructability analysis. The developed interactive tool is used for the scheduling of Udaigiri boys hostel (UBH) building, as a case study, and helps the practitioners and planners in scheduling of their repetitive construction projects.