HSM-Simulation–Based Planning Method for Construction Projects

Abstract

Construction projects are characterized by the random nature of the conditions under which they are implemented and by the dynamic use of available resources. Since site conditions vary randomly and resources perform a multitude of functions on various work tasks, planning of construction projects using traditional tools like the critical path method becomes limited and induces deficiency in the resulting plan. This paper demonstrates that a simulation-based methodology is appropriate for modeling such a scenario. The hierarchical simulation modeling (HSM) method, a simulation-based method, for planning of construction projects is presented. HSM enhances and combines the concepts of work breakdown structure and process modeling to arrive at an advanced framework for planning. Hierarchical and modular simulation constructs form the basis of this method. The construction of a bridge (Peace River Bridge) is used to illustrate HSM concepts and its advantages.